Mwilu and Idi share 'CNN MultiChoice African Journalist of the Year' Award

Their Terror Crossing is an in-depth investigative documentary about security at the Kenya-Somali border in Mandera County. Kenya Television Network aired the story in its investigative programme The Lead.

Mwilu and Idi said, “We are overwhelmed by this accolade. It is a dream come true to win the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist Award for a story that we believe passionately in and one that we felt was important to tell.”

Asha Ahmed Mwilu and Rashid Idi

Yolisa Phahle, CEO of M-Net, and Greg Beitchman, VP, content sales and partnerships, CNN International, presented them with the Award at a gala awards ceremony held at the Gallagher Convention Centre, in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Mwilu and Idi, winners in the News Impact Award, were among 38 finalists from 15 countries who attended the Awards ceremony as the culmination of an all-expense paid four-day programme of workshops, media forums and networking in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Beitchman said, “Quality journalism has shone through once again at this year’s CNN MultiChoice African Journalist Awards. Congratulations to all of tonight’s finalists and winners, especially to overall winners Asha Ahmed Mwilu and Rashid Idi for their powerful reporting. We look forward to welcoming them at the CNN Journalism Fellowship in Atlanta.”

Yolisa Phahle, CEO of M-Net, congratulated the winners of this year's awards: “Thank you to each of you for telling the stories of Africa and its people to the world. We’re proud to play a role in amplifying your voices and the voices of other journalists across the African continent.”

A range of sponsors Dow, Ecobank, GE, IPP Media and the World Health Organisation, once again supported the competition.

For more information, go to www.africa.cnnjournalistaward.com.