Apply for the Africa Science Journalism Awards 2025

The Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation) announces the launch of its second Africa Science Journalism Awards (ASJA), celebrating excellence in health, science, and development reporting across the continent. This Gates Foundation-supported initiative, with additional backing from the World Federation of Science Journalists (WFSJ), aims to enhance the visibility and impact of African science journalism.

Read more about Opportunities

Winners will receive both monetary prizes and recognition plaques at the World Conference of Science Journalists in December 2025—the first time this conference will be held in Africa. Additionally, winners will gain the valuable opportunity to spend 3-7 days at a partner academic or research institution (within their country or regionally) to deepen their understanding of scientific subjects through direct engagement with scientists. A pitch fee will be provided for any stories published from this experience.

Eligibility Requirements

1. Content must be published between January 2024 and June 30, 2025.
2. Open to journalists who are African citizens or permanent residents primarily living in Africa.
3. Submissions may be published in local or international media outlets, provided the reporting focuses on African contexts.
4. Entries must address health, climate and environment, or agriculture topics.
5. Editors applying for the Editor’s Award must represent Africa-based publications.

Award Categories

Best Story – Print and Broadcast

Recognises two experienced journalists (one print, one broadcast) with five or more years of professional experience whose in-depth science reporting has significantly influenced public understanding of key issues. Each winner receives $1,500.

Early Career Journalist – Print or Broadcast

Honours two promising journalists (one print, one broadcast) with less than five years of professional experience who demonstrate exceptional potential in science reporting. Each winner receives $1,500.

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Innovator Award for Editors

Acknowledges two editors who have championed science journalism in their newsrooms by expanding coverage of science-related stories. Each winner receives $2,000.

Science Champion

Recognises a scientist or innovator who has effectively used online and traditional platforms to increase visibility of their work and promote science across Africa. Prize: $1,500.

Submission Guidelines

1. Best News Story: Submit 1 story
2. Early Career Journalist: Submit 1 story
3. Editor’s Award: Submit a list of stories published within the eligible period demonstrating commitment to science journalism
4. Science Champion: Submit 1 story

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Important Notes

1. All categories accept entries from print, broadcast, and online media.
2. Submissions must align with SFA Foundation’s focus areas: health, climate/environment, and agriculture.
3. Applicants may submit to only one journalist category (either Best Story OR Early Career).
4. Journalist applicants may also submit separately for the Editor’s Award if eligible.
5. One entry per person for Editor’s Award and Science Champion categories.
6. All entries must be submitted through the Agaseke Grants Management System.

The deadline for applications is July 4, 2025. Click HERE to apply.

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