The past year has been a defining one for Kenya – a time of profound change, deep national grief, and extraordinary resilience. We saw historic youth-led protests demanding accountability, mourned the passing of opposition icon Rt Hon Raila Odinga, and marked the one-year anniversary of the powerful “Gen Z” movement that shook the status quo and put Kenya in the global spotlight. Our nation also shone through successes like hosting a triumphant CHAN 2024 and record-breaking performances by Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet in Tokyo.

Celebrating journalistic excellence remains one of our core commitments at the Media Council of Kenya – a vital way to recognise professionalism, ethical standards, and outstanding work across the industry. You have been the eyes and ears of the nation, faithfully documenting events at home and abroad with accuracy and courage.

To honour your dedication, the Media Council of Kenya proudly invites you to submit entries for the 14th Annual Media Excellence Awards (AMEA) 2026. Your stories defined our year. Now let them showcase your excellence.

Among the standout categories are Press Freedom and State of the Media, which recognises powerful reporting on the media itself – critically examining policy, working conditions, mental well-being, newsroom practices, viability, and sustainability – alongside nominations for individuals, institutions, or media houses that have championed press freedom in Kenya.

Other key categories include Podcast of the Year, honouring outstanding digital audio or audio-visual content that tackles pressing public issues on online platforms; Digital Economy and Innovation Reporting, for exceptional coverage of technological advancements, innovations, and creative uses of ICT; Financial and Business Reporting, spotlighting insightful stories on the Creative Economy and the MSME sector; Best Investigative Reporting, rewarding public-interest journalism that drives official action and real change; and Best Follow-Up Reporting, which recognises journalists who return to a previously reported story of public importance or significance to examine new developments, unresolved issues, or lasting impact, demonstrating persistence, accountability, and strong public-interest value. 

Submit your impactful work from the past year via the AMEA 2026 portal at http://amea.mediacouncil.or.ke 

We look forward to celebrating your contributions.

My best wishes

David Omwoyo, MBS

Chief Executive Officer & Secretary to the Board