The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Services has started receiving applications for this year’s Komla Dumor award, established in honour of Komla Dumor, a presenter for BBC World News, who died in 2014 aged 41.
According to a release, this year’s winner will work with teams across BBC News in London for three months, and applications for participation in the prestigious competition close on March 23, 2016.
Last year’s winner is Kenya-based Ugandan journalist Nancy Kacungira, a television anchor for Kenya’s KTN television channel, who was selected from nearly 200 applicants.
“Komla was a much-loved and respected journalist – not only with his colleagues but also with aspiring journalists and audiences across the world,” the BBC’s World Service Group and Deputy Director of News and Current Affairs Fran Unsworth, said.
Unsworth added: “His storytelling was compelling and his enthusiasm was infectious, making him one of Africa’s leading journalists.
According to Unsworth, the BBC is looking for a talented broadcaster who fits the late Komla’s prowess.
“At the BBC, we are committed to continuing Komla’s dedication to this continent by launching this award for the second year running. We are searching for a rising star who displays exceptional talent, someone who embodies the spirit of Komla,” Unsworth said.
Komla Dumor was an exceptional Ghanaian broadcaster who made an impact his home country, in Africa and around the world.
‘He represented a confident, savvy and entrepreneurial side of Africa. Through his tenacious journalism and compelling storytelling, Komla worked tirelessly to bring a more nuanced African narrative to the world,’ the release adds.
