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The Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards 2026, presented by the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) in partnership with the Wikimedia Foundation, are now open for applications from journalists across Africa who have produced high-quality reporting that helps expand publicly accessible information about the continent. These awards, recognising excellence in journalism that strengthens open knowledge and supports reliable content referenced on Wikipedia and related platforms, offer a combined USD 3,000 in prizes and professional opportunities for winners.
The awards aim to highlight journalistic work that enhances global understanding of African societies, histories, and cultures while contributing source material for Wikipedia. Eligible journalists must be citizens of an African country, primarily reside on the African continent, and have their submitted work published between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025 in reliable, accessible outlets. Submissions are accepted in English or French (with translations where required) and should demonstrate depth, accuracy, original reporting, or investigative insight.
Entries are categorised into two thematic areas: reporting on Women and/or Youth, and coverage of Arts, Culture, Heritage, and Sports — domains identified to encourage stories that broaden knowledge about under-represented subjects and amplify diverse voices across the continent. All submissions must include a verified URL or link to the published article to confirm authenticity and accessibility for Wikimedia editors and judges.
Prizes and Recognition:
- First-place winner: USD 2,000, a certificate of recognition, and an invitation to participate with Wikimedia volunteers at one of the organisation’s 2026 Community Conferences, offering networking and professional exchange opportunities.
- Second-place recipient: USD 1,000 and a certificate of recognition.
- Special mention: One additional nominee will be recognised for a notable contribution at the discretion of the ICFJ and Wikimedia Foundation.
All awardees and their work will be celebrated publicly through media and on the Wikimedia and ICFJ official channels.
Application Timeline:
- Submissions open: 2 February 2026 at 15:00 UTC.
- Deadline for entries: 1 March 2026 at 23:59 UTC.
- Winners announced: 16 June 2026.
The awards reflect efforts to strengthen journalism’s role in building an inclusive representation of Africa in the global knowledge ecosystem, and to acknowledge the vital link between rigorous reporting and accessible public information.
Reference –
The Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards 2026 for African Journalists (USD 3,000 prize)