Felix Mbayu Elevates Journalism with Announced Peter Essoka Award

 

H.E. Felix Mbayu, Minister Delegate to the Minister of External Relations in charge of Relations with the Commonwealth, has announced the launch of the Peter Essoka Prize for Excellence in Journalism. This initiative, revealed in a press release dated February 20, 2026, aims to honor outstanding achievements in newscasting and animation in the English language.

Marking the festivities surrounding Commonwealth Day on March 9, 2026, this prize is set against a backdrop of empowerment, with the theme "Unlocking Opportunities Together for a Prosperous Commonwealth." The celebration will feature events across the nation from February 28 to March 9, culminating in a recognition ceremony applauding exceptional journalists who embody the principles of integrity and dedication.

The Peter Essoka Prize aims to recognize four individuals: two male and two female newscasters and animators who demonstrate outstanding diction, articulation, accuracy, and professionalism in their broadcasts. Each awardee will receive a cash prize of 500,000 CFA francs, a generous sponsorship coming from the Ministry of External Relations in collaboration with Merdolf Sarl, a company devoted to supporting media development.

Nominations for the award will be crowd-sourced through radio phone-ins and messages during the Commonwealth Radio Quiz on CRTV from March 2 to March 9, with winners selected by a jury headed by the award's namesake, Peter Essoka, a revered figure in Cameroonian media.

 

Viban Jude, the National President of CAMASEJ (the Cameroon Association of English-Speaking Journalists), welcomed the establishment of the prize, emphasizing its potential to "honor our heroes, strengthen our profession, and inspire the next generation of journalists." 

He further highlighted the societal impact of such initiatives and the importance of demonstrating support for quality journalism in a time when media integrity is paramount.

Viban Jude noted the involvement of business leaders, like Merdolf Sarl's CEO Che Lindolf Ndongnyam, as integral to fostering a collaborative approach between the media and the business sector, showcasing how both can work hand-in-hand to uplift the standards of journalism.

Peter Essoka himself is a noteworthy figure in this domain, having spent decades as a broadcaster and holding the prestigious role of former President of the National Communication Council. His legacy as "The Voice" of President Paul Biya during official addresses stands as a testament to the impactful contribution he has made to the industry.

 

By Bamenjo Petronilla 

 

Photo Credit 

Diplocam.cm

UN Media

Cameroon Tribune

CAMASEJ