Rwanda hosted the National Storytelling Excellence Awards 2025, bringing together government officials, international partners, media institutions, and digital content creators to celebrate outstanding achievements in ethical storytelling and responsible digital media. The event marked the successful completion of Year 2 of the European Union–supported E-RE Project.
Senada Kahriman country director of Norwegian People’s Aid welcomes Guests and Highlights the Mission of the E-RE Project
Opening the ceremony, Senada welcomed attendees from the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), the Rwanda Media Commission, the European Union Mission in Rwanda, and other key partners. She noted a minor delay as some participants were still arriving, before emphasizing the importance of the occasion.
The event, she explained, marks a major milestone in the E-RE Project a national initiative designed to:
– Promote responsible freedom of expression
– Improve access to credible information
– Strengthen digital media literacy in Rwanda
The Digital Media Challenge: Information Access vs. Misinformation
Senada outlined how the digital era has allowed people of all ages to access information easily, but it has also intensified challenges such as hate speech, fake news, and online misinformation. In Rwanda’s context shaped by a history where “hate media” played a destructive role irresponsible digital content threatens national unity, peace, and reconciliation. Because of this, she stressed, the country must continue supporting media that is accurate, constructive, and ethical.
A Shared Responsibility to Protect Reliable and Ethical Digital Content
Senada reminded attendees that access to reliable and responsible information is a human right that must be actively protected. She praised the efforts of journalists and digital creators who continue to maintain professionalism and accuracy, even in a digital environment where sensational and monetized content can be tempting.
Government Institutions Commended for Guidance and Partnership
She also extended appreciation to national institutions particularly RGB and the Rwanda Media Commission for providing oversight and ensuring the project remains aligned with national policies. She acknowledged constructive collaboration with civil society, government agencies, and law-enforcement bodies, all working together to strengthen Rwanda’s media landscape. Senada concluded by expressing confidence that the awards presented during the ceremony would motivate digital storytellers to maintain high standards and contribute to a more informed society.
Training and Mentorship Transform the Approach of Digital Content Creators
Speaking on behalf of Afrimedia, Ms. Ayanone Solange explained that the purpose of the awards is to promote excellence in digital storytelling and encourage ethical, impactful content under the *Ijwi Riranguriye* project. She noted that before the training, many storytellers did not fully consider how their work influenced communities. However, after mentorship, creators are now producing content that is meaningful, responsible, and community-focused.
Awards Encourage Creativity and Community-Focused Storytelling
To qualify for the competition, participants had to:
1. Be trainees under the project
2. Submit one original story produced after the training
3. Ensure all work was created post-mentorship
A four-member jury drawn from Norwegian People’s Aid, Afrimedia, the Rwanda Media Commission, and the project trainers reviewed the submissions. Of 30 trained creators, 16 applied, and 10 finalists moved forward. The top three winners earned final scores of 79%, 75%, and 74%. Project leaders reported that these scores reflect notable growth in ethical storytelling and commitment to improving the digital information environment.
EU Representative Praises Collaboration and Impact of the Project
European Union Representative Alice expressed her delight in joining the awards ceremony, describing it as a powerful celebration of creativity, professionalism, and responsible digital journalism. She noted that the initiative is part of a strong partnership between the European Union, Norwegian People’s Aid, and Afrimedia.
Through this collaboration, more than 30 citizen journalists completed a four-month mentorship program designed to:
– Improve storytelling skills
– Strengthen ethical reporting practices
– Combat misinformation
– Encourage constructive online engagement
– Uphold integrity in public information
Elise Hadman Head of Cooperation of European Union praised the awardees for demonstrating talent, dedication, and strong understanding of national issues such as governance, youth empowerment, gender equality, environmental protection, and social accountability.
Stronger Digital Literacy and Freedom of Expression for a More Inclusive Rwanda
She encouraged digital storytellers across the country to continue striving for accuracy, truth, and professionalism, noting that their contributions play a vital role in building a trusted and participatory media environment.
Elise concluded by reaffirming the European Union’s ongoing commitment to supporting responsible freedom of expression and digital literacy, ensuring that Rwanda continues moving toward a more informed, inclusive, and resilient society.
Karungi Doreen
