PACJA Awards Journalists Reporting on The Environment and Climate Change in Africa (ACCER)

PRESS RELEASE – ACCER AWARDS

Abidjan, 31 August 2024 – The Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) has honored outstanding journalists reporting on environmental and climate change issues in Africa. The award ceremony occurred in Abidjan, alongside the 12th Conference on Climate Change and Development in Africa (CCDA-XII).

This year’s theme was “Advancing Accountability for Adaptation Finance for Enhanced Resilience, Climate Justice, and Equity.” 478 journalists submitted entries, with 16 winners selected across six categories.

The categories for submissions included Print Media, Broadcast Media, Digital Activism, Investigative Reporting, Coverage of Local Climate Change Issues, and Opinion/Commentary.

During the gala night, Carlton Cofie, the Chief Judge, praised the exceptional quality of the entries and highlighted the challenge of selecting the winners due to the high level of competition. He also mentioned that future competitions would be enhanced, with journalists receiving additional training in climate change and environmental issues.

Now in its 8th edition, the ACCER Awards were first launched in 2013. Dr. Mithika Mwenda, Executive Director of PACJA, emphasized the strategic role of the media in advancing and promoting climate justice advocacy across Africa and beyond.

The African Climate Change and Environmental Reporting (ACCER) Awards, held biennially since 2013, aim to recognize and encourage exceptional journalists and media networks. These awards celebrate those who effectively use their skills, reach, and influence to simplify complex environmental and scientific discussions, raising awareness of how these issues impact people’s lives, societies, economies, and the planet’s health.

Below is a list of the winners of the 8th ACCER Awards.