Meet the 2024 IGAD Media Awards Jury

Senior News Anchor | Ethiopia Broadcasting Corporation (EBC)

Tabitha John is a seasoned Journalist and News Anchor at the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC) since 2015. Known for her impactful storytelling and professionalism, she delivers compelling news across Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa.

President, Union of Journalists of South Sudan and Senior News Producer 

Oyet Patrick Charles is a seasoned South Sudanese journalist who has worked with major outlets including Feature Story News, CGTN, and South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation. 

Chief News Editor | Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC)

Rose Bukirwa is an experienced Chief News Editor with 25 years in TV newsroom operations. Specialising in management, training, and mentoring, she has a strong focus on health and education. Rose brings her extensive expertise to her role as a juror for the IGAD Media Awards.

Editor in Chief | Citizen Newspaper – Sudan

With 35 years of experience, Muawad Mustafa is an expert in civil society and human development. As Editor-in-Chief of The Citizen electronic newspaper, Muawad Mustafa brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to their role, shaping impactful journalism in these critical areas.

TV Production Manager | Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC)

Sophia Matovu is an experienced production professional with a focus on current affairs, live national broadcasts, and health-related content creation. With over 25 years in the industry, she brings her extensive expertise to her role as a juror for the IGAD Media Awards.

Communication Specialist & Policy Advisor | Somali National News Agency – SONNA

Abdiqani Abdullahi Ahmed is a skilled communication specialist with over 7 years of experience in strategic policy development. With a background in business and IT, he has served in key roles, including Senior Advisor at Somalia’s Ministry of Information and IT Instructor at City University of Somalia. He is known for his expertise in data security, strategic communication, and stakeholder engagement.

Senior Radio News Editor & Anchor | Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC)

Asha Khamisi is a seasoned journalist with over 18 years of experience, specializing in solutions journalism. Known for her positive approach to her work, she brings her extensive expertise to her role as a juror for the IGAD Media Awards.

Senior Member, Media Council of Somalia | CEO Candidate

Abdirahman M. Aden Koronto is a seasoned journalist with over 20 years of experience. He began his career during the Somali civil war and later joined BBC World Service as a producer, presenter, and field reporter. Abdirahman has covered key events across Africa, including Somali reconciliation and major elections. He now trains young journalists and lectures at Somali National University in Mogadishu.

Head of ICT Department | Ethiopia Broadcasting Corporation (EBC)

Fekadu Merkena Daba holds a BSc in Information Communication Technology and an MBA in Project Management. With experience as a TV Production Manager from 2008 to 2010, he has since led the ICT department at EBC, focusing on technology and project management. While not a journalist, his extensive expertise in ICT supports his role as a juror for the IGAD Media Awards.

News Reporter & Documentary Filmmaker | La Nation DJIBOUTI

Rachid Ahmed Abdillahi is an experienced journalist specializing in news reporting and documentaries. With over 15 years of expertise, he focuses on peace and security, climate change, social development, and sports.

Assistant Director | Somali National Television (SNTV)

Hanad Dahir is an experienced television manager with 7 years of expertise in overseeing broadcast operations, content strategy, and program development at Somali National Television. His work is driven by a passion for promoting peace and security.