Komla Dumor Award for African journalists launched by BBC

20 Jan 2015

On 19 January 2015, the BBC World News launched the Komla Dumor Award for African journalists, in memory of Dumor, who died aged 41 on this day last year.

The Award, supported by Standard Chartered, is now open for applications and will be given to an outstanding individual living and working in Africa, who combines strong journalism skills and an exceptional talent in telling African stories, with the ambition and potential to become a star of the future.

Komla Dumor

Continuing Komla's legacy

Komla was an exceptional Ghanaian broadcaster who in his short life made an extraordinary impact - in Ghana, in Africa and across the world - on Joy FM and at the BBC. Through his tenacious journalism and compelling storytelling, he worked tirelessly to bring a more sophisticated African narrative to the world. The BBC is committed to continuing Komla's legacy.

The winner will be awarded the opportunity to gain skills and experience, working with teams across BBC News during a three-month placement in London. He or she will have the chance to broadcast on TV, Radio and Online to the BBC's audiences of 265 million across the world.

Solomon Mugera, BBC Africa Editor, said, "Komla epitomised a new Africa; youthful, dynamic and enterprising. With his infectious enthusiasm, beaming smile and engaging personality he made the stories of a new Africa, good and bad, difficult to ignore. The BBC is committed to continuing Komla's dedication to this continent with this award. We are searching for a rising star who displays exceptional talent, someone who embodies the spirit of Komla."