Martin Okudi, the bureau chief for Next Media in Adjumani District, has been honoured with two prestigious awards and two certificates by WaterAid Uganda.
The awards recognise Okudi's exceptional reporting on gender equality and sexual reproductive health rights as part of the SHARE project, which is being implemented in Adjumani and Buyende districts by a consortium of four partner organisations.
The two stories that earned Okudi the accolades are, "Adjumani District Achieves Zero Maternal Deaths in Eight Months" and "Adjumani Leaders Strategise on Gender Transformative Approaches to Adolescent Reproductive Health."
These reports not only shed light on critical health issues in the region but also highlight Okudi’s commitment to impactful storytelling.
The awards were presented during a ceremony at Aragan Hotel Limited in Adjumani Town Council, where WaterAid Uganda recognized six journalists for their contributions.
Okudi stood out among the honorees, securing both awards and certificates for his role in using multiple media platforms print, broadcast, and online to promote accurate, engaging, and influential reporting on key health and gender issues affecting adolescents in Adjumani and Buyende districts.
Joyce Mpalanyi Magala, country director of WaterAid, signed the awards, which were presented to the winners by Robert Ikwap, the Commissioner for Primary Education.
Adjumani, which hosts over 250,000 refugees, mostly women and children from South Sudan, has been a focal point of Okudi’s reporting.
Okudi shared insights into the driving forces behind his work, the challenges he faces, and how this recognition has inspired him to continue advocating for marginalized communities.
“I believe it is vital to amplify the issues affecting adolescents, both nationals and refugees,” Okudi said.
His passion for journalism has led him to cover often underreported stories, ensuring the voices of vulnerable populations are heard.
Okudi's reporting is grounded in accuracy and ethical standards.
He consistently works closely with supervisors and editors to ensure his stories are compelling and impactful.
“I seek guidance from my supervisors and editors to ensure that the community stories I gather are engaging enough to prompt meaningful action,” he said.
Reporting on sensitive topics like gender-based violence comes with its own challenges, as victims often fear stigma and retaliation.
To overcome this, Okudi ensures confidentiality and anonymity for those willing to share their experiences, building trust with his sources and providing them a platform for their stories.
“Honestly, I never imagined that my work in journalism would one day be recognized. These two awards motivate me to continue my commitment to transparent and ethical reporting, ensuring that community issues remain at the forefront of public discourse," he said.
He expressed his gratitude to Next Media Services for providing him the platform to practice journalism and amplify the voices of the voiceless in the Ma'di sub-region.
“Journalism plays a crucial role in nation-building," Okudi said.
"This win is for the community in the Ma'di sub-region, who value accurate reporting and ethical journalism. I will use these awards as a stepping stone to better serve both nationals and refugees living in the region," he added.
Okudi is determined to use his newfound recognition to continue amplifying the voices of those who are often unheard.