Nairobi, Kenya, July 18, 2006 – An award that recognizes journalists who excel in reporting or producing programmes on Aids was launched yesterday.  

The Unesco-sponsored HIV/Aids Red Ribbon Media Award for Excellence in Journalism in Eastern and Southern Africa targets individuals who give an exceptional contribution to society by raising awareness and giving hope to patients.

Mr. Alonzo Aznar, the Unesco Communication Advisor for Eastern Africa, said the aim was to motivate journalists to increase their frequency of Aids coverage.

It is open to electronic, print and on-line journalists from the three East African states and Eritrea, Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Comoros, Madagascar, Seychelles, Rwanda and Burundi.

The top prize for each category is $1500, plus a certificate of achievement, while the first and second runners up will receive $ 750 and $500. More information is available on http.aids-africa.unon.org.

Source: Daily Nation