Journalist appointed Jury member of World Press Freedom Prize 

Rebekah Awuah Joins UNESCO Jury

Renowned Ghanaian journalist Rebekah Awuah has been appointed to the jury for the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize. This is a significant achievement for her and for journalism in Ghana and Africa.

A statement from the Ghana News Agency highlighted her dedication to investigative reporting and press freedom advocacy. Her role on this global jury ensures African perspectives are included in international discussions about press freedom. It also provides a platform to support journalists facing threats worldwide.

Rebekah expressed that she sees this role as a voice for reporters working in difficult conditions. “It’s an opportunity and a rare privilege,” she said. She emphasized that Ghana is recognized as a leader in press freedom in West Africa.

As the first Ghanaian juror, Rebekah joins six distinguished media professionals globally. They will recognize outstanding contributions to press freedom. The prize, established in 1997, honors individuals or organizations promoting press freedom at great personal risk.

The award is named after Colombian journalist Guillermo Cano Isaza, who was assassinated in 1986. It is administered by UNESCO and awarded annually on World Press Freedom Day.

Rebekah aims to amplify struggles for press freedom while learning from experienced jury members. She wants to ensure African narratives are not overlooked in global discussions.

Currently, Rebekah is a Senior Reporter at The Fourth Estate and Fact-Check Ghana. She has extensive experience in accountability journalism and human rights reporting. Before joining MFWA, she worked over 14 years at Ghana Television (GTV) as a news editor and anchor.

Her journalistic excellence has earned her numerous awards, including being a finalist in the 2013 CNN Africa Journalist Awards. She also won the 2023 Energy and SDG Media Personality Award among others.

The jury chair is Yasuomi Sawa from Japan, along with other notable members from Colombia, Sudan, Moldova, and Norway. As a jury member, Rebekah will evaluate nominees and recommend one winner to UNESCO’s Director-General.

Her three-year appointment highlights her commitment to free journalism principles. It showcases Ghana's contribution to media excellence and serves as inspiration for journalists across Africa.

Rebekah’s appointment marks an important milestone in her career. It reflects her dedication to truth, accountability, and justice in journalism.