The Cable News Network (CNN) MultiChoice African Journalist competition aims to reinforce the importance of the journalists’ role in Africa and to recognise and develop journalistic talent across all disciplines.

The competition is open to African professional journalists and freelancers working on the continent for media organisations that are:

• African-owned;
• headquartered within the continent of Africa; and
• distributing in Africa a printed publication and/or electronic medium broadcast which is primarily designed for, and received by, an African audience.

The judges will be looking for work which:

• Tells the story in a clear, comprehensive, and balanced manner;
• Has made these stories or issues accessible and relevant to their audiences;
• Demonstrates journalistic ability and integrity;
• Displays well-organised research, depth, and insight; and
• Was broadcast or published in 2009, with proof of publication or broadcast supplied.

There are 17 prizes - one prize for each of the 16 categories and a prize for the overall winner who is selected from the 16 category winners. Category winners will receive a laptop computer and printer. From these winners, the judges will award the grand prize, an additional cash prize and the opportunity to participate in the CNN Journalism Fellowship at CNN Headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. Winning entries may be print, television, internet, radio, or photographic media.

The following are some of the categories:

1. The HIV/AIDS Award
2. MSD Health & Medical Award
3. Arts and Culture
4. Environment
5. Economics and Business
6. Free Press Africa Award 
7. Digital Journalism Award

Click here for more information about the competition.

Click here for the entry form.

Click here for a list of collection points.

Judging will be done by a panel of independent judges with knowledge and experience of journalistic practices in Africa. Submitted material cannot be returned. THERE WILL BE NO EXTENSION TO THE DEADLINE DATE.

CNN MultiChoice African Journalist Competition website on November 5 2009.