Agricultural journalism has become a shining light in the sector. The global food industry and more generally, agribusiness, are rich veins for investigative reporting, which deserve more attention. The recent Agricultural Writers SA (AWSA) awards recognised those who are making waves within Mzansi’s agricultural sector.
Renowned Free State farmer Japie Grobler received a special award for his work in organised agriculture at the recent awards ceremony in Bothaville in the Free State earlier this month.
To honour the accolade he received, Grobler announced that he would be the headline sponsor for an award that spotlights investigative journalism in South Africa.
Details in the works
While investigative reports address serious issues of corruption, the actions of journalists in the sector have become major vehicles of change, Liza Bohlman, the chairperson of the AWSA tells Food For Mzansi.
Sharing a few details on the future competition, Bohlman says that the prize would honour, “Those writers who go the extra mile to find the truth, to check the facts where applicable and don’t just chase headlines, but also back [their work] up with impeccable information.”
Bohlman adds that further details would be announced in the coming months.
“We will most probably announce the details of this competition by the time that we visit the farmer of the year early next year – it will probably be in February.
“We will still need to figure out criteria, a judging procedure, who can enter, [and] the format that we want it in.”
Soaking up all the glitz and glamour
The annual AWSA event ditched the city lights for a more fitting setting at Nampo Park. It aims to honour those who work hard to promote sustainable farming enterprises, elevate food security, support rural economies, and nurture and uphold the image of agriculture in Mzansi.
If you missed out on the glitz and glam of the annual Agricultural Writers SA national awards ceremony at Nampo Park near Bothaville, catch up below.
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