Africa-Press – Eswatini. The spirit of optimism and unity is sweeping through the local media fraternity, as the Eswatini National Association of Journalists (ESNAJ) confirms that the long-awaited 2025 National Media Awards will take place on 22 December 2025 at the Royal Villas in Ezulwini.
What began as a challenging journey has transformed into an inspiring story of collaboration, resilience, and renewed commitment to strengthening the craft of journalism in Eswatini.
Initially planned for earlier dates in December, the Awards ceremony experienced a series of logistical setbacks, including difficulties securing a venue and delays caused by technical challenges with the online entry system. Despite these hurdles, ESNAJ’s Executive Committee, working closely with the Eswatini Editors’ Forum (EEF) and other key partners, has successfully navigated the complexities to ensure the prestigious celebration of journalistic excellence goes ahead.
According to ESNAJ President Lwazi Dlamini, the turning point came during a productive meeting held with members of the Editors’ Forum, where important decisions were taken to safeguard the event. The organisation has now confirmed not only that the venue is secured, but also that their main sponsor—initially still in negotiation—has officially come on board, ensuring the event’s financial footing is solid.
In what has been described as a remarkable show of confidence in Eswatini journalism, corporate partners and sponsors have rallied behind ESNAJ, offering overwhelming support. This backing affirms the industry’s shared belief in the importance of celebrating credible storytelling, ethical reporting, and professional excellence across all media platforms.
“This year’s Awards will truly be a night of celebrating the storytellers and honouring the craft,” Dlamini said. He expressed deep gratitude to the media community for its patience, encouragement, and unwavering understanding during what he described as an “energy-sapping journey” to put the event together.
He further extended heartfelt appreciation to the ESNAJ Executive Committee, the Editors’ Forum, and consultant MARC for their remarkable work in ensuring the event’s revival. Their collective effort, he noted, shows what can be achieved when the industry pulls together with a shared purpose.
Dlamini also acknowledged the journalists who took the time to submit entries across the various categories. He emphasised that their participation plays a key role in rebuilding and strengthening the integrity of journalism in Eswatini.
“Each entry represents a brick in rebuilding our profession,” he said. “The Awards night is a major milestone for the profession we love, and together we will continue to grow stronger.”
The 2025 National Media Awards come at a time when the global media landscape is evolving rapidly, demanding adaptability, innovation, and unwavering commitment to truth and professionalism. The upcoming celebration is therefore more than just an awards ceremony—it is a renewed declaration of the vital role the media plays in shaping national discourse, informing communities, and safeguarding democracy.
With final preparations now underway, ESNAJ has assured members that further details and updates will be communicated across its platforms ahead of the event. As the countdown begins, excitement is building for what promises to be a memorable evening recognising the country’s finest journalistic achievements.
Dlamini concluded with enthusiasm, saying, “Let us make 22 December 2025 a night to remember.”
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