BBC presenter Komla Dumor died suddenly 10 years ago
The BBC has officially opened applications for the 2025 BBC News Komla Dumor Award, marking its 10th anniversary. This prestigious accolade seeks to recognize and support emerging talent in African journalism.Journalists from across the continent are encouraged to apply for the award, which provides the winner with a three-month placement at the BBC headquarters in London. During this time, the successful candidate will receive professional training and gain hands-on experience in global journalism.The application deadline is 20 March 2025 at 23:59 GMT.This award honors the legacy of Komla Dumor, a celebrated Ghanaian broadcaster and former BBC World News presenter, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 41. His widow, Kwansema Dumor, expressed gratitude for the BBC’s continued recognition of his contributions and their commitment to nurturing African journalism.The winner will also have the opportunity to travel within Africa to report on a self-researched story, which will be broadcast to the BBC’s global audience. The BBC remains dedicated to upholding Dumor’s vision by empowering African journalists to share nuanced and compelling African narratives on an international stage.Jonathan Munro, BBC News global director and deputy CEO, stated: “We are proud to launch this year’s BBC News Komla Dumor Award and the search for its next recipient. Reaching its 10th year is a testament to Komla Dumor’s lasting impact in reporting African stories with depth, insight, and integrity. We encourage journalists from across Africa to apply.”The award has recognized exceptional journalists from the continent since its inception. Last year’s winner, Rukia Bulle from Kenya, traveled to Senegal during her placement to cover a story on the Baye Fall, an unorthodox Muslim minority often misunderstood within the broader faith.Komla Dumor was the host of Focus on Africa, the BBC’s first dedicated daily TV news program for African audiences. He also anchored BBC World News’ European morning segment and covered African business trends on Africa Business Report. Dumor’s influence was widely acknowledged, earning him a place on New African magazine’s 2013 list of the 100 most influential Africans
Past Winners of the BBC News Komla Dumor Award:- 2024: Rukia Bulle (Kenya)- **2023:** Paa Kwesi Asare (Ghana)- **2022:** Dingindaba Jonah Buyoya (Zambia)- **2020:** Victoria Rubadiri (Kenya)- **2019:** Solomon Serwanjja (Uganda)- **2018:** Waihiga Mwaura (Kenya)- **2017:** Amina Yuguda (Nigeria)- **2016:** Didi Akinyelure (Nigeria)- **2015:** Nancy Kacungira (Uganda)The BBC continues to honor Komla Dumor’s legacy by providing a platform for African journalists to thrive and bring impactful stories to the world.
