The first Voices of Impact: HIV & STIs Reporting Media Awards 2026 took place on June 22, 2026, at the Pullman Nairobi Upper Hill. This event marked an important moment in public health journalism. It was organized by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Kenya, along with key partners including the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), the National AIDS and STI Control Programme (NASCOP), and the Media Council of Kenya (MCK).
The awards celebrated journalists who have worked to break down societal barriers. While medical science has made great strides in managing HIV as a chronic condition, social stigma, fear, and entrenched myths still hinder testing, treatment, and preventive care. This initiative directly tackles these issues by honoring media professionals who promote informed public discussions and challenge longstanding prejudices.
Injecting choice: Kenya’s bold leap forward in the fight against HIV
Throughout the evening, leaders from the organizing bodies highlighted the importance of responsible, evidence-based journalism. They see it as a crucial driver for health awareness and social change. By changing public perception from fear to understanding, storytelling that focuses on people amplifies the voices of those affected and protects vulnerable groups from harmful isolation. Ultimately, the awards aim to improve the quality, accuracy, and reach of health reporting across all 47 counties in Kenya. This creates a stronger national framework against syndemic diseases.
The top honor of the night went to Millicent Kubai from the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). Her powerful feature story, “Life Beyond the Diagnosis,” earned her the grand prize, the title of Media Champion, and the award for Best Radio Journalism, along with a cash prize of KES 500,000. Other top winners included Rosa Agutu from KTN News, who won for TV Feature / Documentary and placed third overall; Mercy Kahenda from The Standard Group, who won for Print Journalism; and Nathan Ochunge from Willow Health Media, who took home the award for Digital Journalism.
This celebration also highlighted a strong commitment to public health. Co-sponsor AHF is currently the world’s largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care. It serves over 2.6 million clients in more than 45 countries. Since starting its operations in Kenya in 2004, AHF has expanded into 14 counties, providing vital testing, prevention, and clinical care. As the gala wrapped up, attendees from both healthcare and media sectors renewed their commitment to keeping conversations about HIV and STIs visible, factual, and compassionate. This shows that exceptional journalism does more than report events—it shapes policy and saves lives.
