These journalists have demonstrated exceptional courage and professionalism in reporting under challenging circumstances.
This statement was originally published on afjc.media on 28 April 2025.
The Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) announced the winners of its 12th annual Afghanistan Journalists of the Year award, recognizing journalists who have demonstrated exceptional courage and professionalism in reporting under challenging circumstances.
The award ceremony took place today in Brussels, with virtual participation from Afghanistan and around the world. In his opening remarks, Ahmad Quraishi, Executive Director of AFJC, noted that in previous years, the “Journalist of the Year Afghanistan” award was traditionally presented on National Journalists’ Day, observed on March 17. However, this year’s ceremony was postponed due to its coincidence with the holy month of Ramadan.
Quraishi highlighted the active engagement of over fifty local media outlets from across Afghan provinces, as well as international media specializing in Afghanistan, participating in the competition. He expressed pride in the dedication of local journalists but also voiced concern over the severe restrictions imposed by de facto authorities, which significantly limit journalists’ opportunities to produce and publish investigative reports on critical issues such as governance and human rights.
Somaia Walizada, a member of the award jury committee, stated that this year’s award honors five outstanding journalists whose work exemplifies unwavering commitment to the highest standards of journalism. The recipients are:
– Nasrin Saidi, Radio Sarhad, Ghor Province — for her in-depth coverage of child dropouts and early marriage, shedding light on vital social issues affecting Afghan youth.
– Mohammad Yousuf Mangal, Pahjwok Agency, Khost Province — for his inspiring report on a young man providing free education to displaced children, highlighting grassroots efforts for social upliftment.
– Azizullah Wahdat, Tamadon TV, Balkh Province — for his investigative exploration of climate change and water scarcity, raising awareness of environmental crises impacting communities.
– Ramin Mazhar, Afghanistan International TV — for his compelling investigative report on women’s rights in Afghanistan.
– Ahsanullah Karimi, Independent Journalist, Kabul — for his impactful coverage of traffic safety and infrastructure issues, exposing risks faced by ordinary citizens.
Following the announcement, distinguished guests – including Najibullah Salarzai, Afghan Ambassador to Belgium; Robert Chatrton Dicksun, Chargé d’Affaires of the United Kingdom and co-founder of the Global Coalition for Media Freedom; Pamela Munirir, Head of Advocacy Communications at the International Federation of Journalists; and Toby Mendel, President of the Center for Law and Democracy – underscored the vital importance of press freedom and the critical role of independent media in Afghanistan.
In another segment of the event, Hameera Mohammadi, Managing Director of Radio Naway-e-Zan (Voice of Women) in Farah Province, and Lotfullah Najafizada, CEO of exiled Amoo Television, shared insights on the challenges facing media outlets and strategies to improve the operational environment for Afghan journalists.
Since its inception in 2014, AFJC has recognized 22 journalists from various media outlets – including BBC Afghanistan, Ariana News TV, Hasht-e-Subh Daily, Etilaatroz Daily, Tolo News, AFP reporters in Afghanistan, Pahjwok Agency, Payk Investigative Journalism Network, Afghanistan International TV, Radio Killid, and Rakhshana Magazine – six of whom are women.
AFJC reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to defending press freedom and supporting courageous journalism, emphasizing the essential role media play in fostering transparency and accountability in Afghanistan.
