Royal Media journalists receive top honours for universal health coverage

Held to celebrate the power of storytelling in addressing health disparities, the event spotlighted journalism that bridges the gap between health, policy, and the communities most in need.

Among the standout moments of the evening were the recognition of two exceptional Royal Media journalists as 1st runners-up in their respective categories, underscoring the impactful work being done in the media space to advocate for better health outcomes.

Emmily Chebet -1st Runner-Up in the ‘Food Systems (Agriculture, Policy & Safety)’ Category

Emmily Chebet, a reporter for Citizen TV, emerged as the 1st runner-up in the Food Systems (Agriculture, Policy & Safety) category, a segment that honours journalism bridging the fields of agriculture, food security, nutrition, and public health outcomes. Emmily’s investigative report brought crucial attention to the intersections between agricultural policies and the public health implications of food security in Kenya.

Her compelling reporting highlighted key issues within Kenya's agricultural sector, such as policy gaps, the environmental impact of farming practices, and the role of pesticides in ensuring food safety and security. By addressing these topics, Emmily emphasised the importance of integrating Smart Climate Agriculture practices, which prioritize sustainability and health while reducing environmental harm. This approach is crucial for fostering a food system that can withstand climate challenges while ensuring safe, nutritious food for all.

The focus on pesticide safety, as part of her broader exploration of agricultural policies, directly ties into the need for more climate-resilient farming practices. Emmily’s piece no doubt contributed to raising awareness about the delicate balance between pesticide use, environmental health, and food security, advocating for policies that can improve agricultural systems for the long term.

Her recognition underscores the power of investigative journalism in shaping policy and improving practices within the agricultural sector, particularly in the context of climate change and public health.

Angela Kezengwa - 1st Runner-Up in the ‘Lived Experience Feature (Patient-Focused Storytelling)’ Category

Angela Kezengwa, a seasoned reporter at Vuuka FM and Citizen Digital, was honoured as the 1st runner-up in the Lived Experience Feature (Patient-Focused Storytelling) category. This award recognises stories that place patients’ voices at the heart of health reporting, emphasising empathy, access, and dignity in care.

Angela’s award-winning piece captivated audiences by centering the lived experiences of individuals facing significant health challenges. Through compassionate and in-depth storytelling, she brought to light the human side of health crises, allowing the audience to understand the profound impact of healthcare policies and practices on real patients. Her ability to amplify these voices has sparked important discussions about the need for a more patient-centred approach in healthcare systems across the region.

A Night of Recognition for Journalism’s Role in Health and Equity

The NCD Alliance Kenya Media Awards 2025 also saw recognition in other impactful categories such as Environment, Climate Change & Health, Alcohol Control Reporting, Tobacco Control Journalism, and UHC & Health Technology Features, all of which highlight the diverse ways in which media is influencing health policy, public behaviour, and social equity.

As the event celebrated outstanding contributions to health journalism, it reaffirmed the importance of using storytelling to drive policy change, inform the public, and ultimately create a more equitable and healthy society for all.

Both Angela Kezengwa and Emmily Chebet’s awards show the significant role that journalism plays in driving positive change in public health and policy. Their recognition reflects the growing understanding that health issues are deeply interconnected with social, economic, and environmental factors, and that journalism can be a powerful tool in advocating for comprehensive and lasting solutions.