The African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME) is delighted to announce that the submission window for the 12th edition of the Uganda National Journalism Awards is officially open. These awards serve as a definitive measure of excellence in Ugandan media, recognising the critical and courageous work of journalists and media organisations that shape national discourse and hold those in power accountable.

Key dates
–  Submissions open: 15 October 2025
–  Submission deadline: 31 January 2026
–  Adjudication of entries: February–March 2026
–  Awards gala: 22 April 2026

About the Uganda National Journalism Awards

The Uganda National Journalism Awards are the largest and most prestigious recognition of journalistic excellence in Uganda. They honor work that sets high standards for professionalism, ethics and impact across various media, including print, broadcast, online, multimedia and visual journalism.

ACME is committed to promoting and sustaining high journalistic standards across Uganda and beyond. As a core programme of ACME, the Uganda National Journalism Awards were established to celebrate work that demonstrates credibility, editorial rigour and social relevance. Over the years, these awards have recognised journalism that informs public understanding, strengthens institutions, and contributes to a more knowledgeable and engaged society.

The Uganda National Journalism Awards provide a national platform for journalists and media organisations, highlighting outstanding reporting that might otherwise go unnoticed. Past recipients have gained recognition not only within the media industry but also among policymakers, academics, civil society and the public. This recognition reinforces the influence and importance of high-quality journalism throughout Uganda.

These awards celebrate the diversity of storytelling in Uganda by recognising innovative, explanatory and investigative reporting that deepens understanding, reveals new perspectives, and inspires informed action. By showcasing creative and socially relevant journalism, the awards affirm the media’s capacity to engage audiences, address pressing issues, and reflect the richness of Ugandan society.

Key highlights for 2026

The Uganda National Journalism Awards 2026 features 20 thematic categories covering a wide range of subjects across public affairs and specialised reporting.

NEW!
Rising Star Award for Excellence in Early-Career Journalism – Recognises outstanding work by new talent shaping Uganda’s media industry. This award is open to university students, early-career journalists, and independent content creators producing journalistic work on any platform or format. Eligible entrants must be 25 years old or younger by the submission deadline of 31 January 2026.

Digital Public Infrastructure Reporting – For journalism that investigates, explains and analyses the systems and platforms that enable essential society-wide functions, such as identity verification, financial transactions, data exchange, health information access, mobility solutions and e-government services.

Returning in 2026
Climate Change Reporting – For a second year, this special category recognises journalism that covers climate-related issues and the impacts of climate change on vulnerable. The award, presented in partnership with the Palladium Group Climate Smart Jobs programme, the category welcomes entries from both individual journalists and media organisations whose work sheds light on the societal, economic, and environmental dimensions of climate change in Uganda.

Reporting on the Productive Use of Solar Energy in Agriculture – Open to journalists in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, this award celebrates work that explores solar energy solutions enhancing agricultural productivity, sustainability and livelihoods.

Stanbic Shield of Journalism Award – Recognises media institutions of any size or type that demonstrate sustained excellence, editorial independence, public service impact, and high-quality, audience-focused journalism across multiple platforms.

Why participate?

  • Gain national recognition for outstanding journalistic work and cement your contribution to Uganda’s media landscape.
  • Benchmark your work against the highest industry standards through expert evaluation and feedback.
  • Inspire and motivate your team, reinforcing pride and morale through recognition of their contributions.
  • Showcase your work to wider audiences, amplifying the reach and influence of your reporting.

How to participate