Ghana’s Paa Kwesi Asare Wins Prestigious 2023 BBC News Komla Dumor Award

• damiadeniyi
• August 21, 2023
• Featured, News
• 0 Comments

Ghanaian journalist and TV presenter, Paa Kwesi Asare, has triumphed as the laureate of the distinguished 2023 BBC News Komla Dumor Award. This prestigious accolade, commemorating the legacy of the late Komla Dumor, marks a historic moment for Asare as he becomes the eighth recipient and the first from Ghana.

At the age of 36, Paa Kwesi Asare currently holds the position of Head of Business News at Ghana’s private TV3 channel, where he has diligently served as a prominent news anchor for seven years. The creation of this award was an endeavor to honor the memory of Dumor, a BBC World News presenter whose untimely passing at 41 in 2014 was a profound loss to the field.

Komla Dumor ardently worked to weave a more intricate African narrative into the global discourse. He brought forth the confident, enterprising, and astute facets of Africa. His remarkable dedication has left an indelible mark on journalism, inspiring generations to come.

The panel of judges was deeply impressed by Asare’s journalistic prowess, noting his adeptness at simplifying complex subjects into compelling narratives. Asare expressed his excitement, sharing, “This is a pivotal moment in my career, an opportunity I’ll grasp with enthusiasm.” As part of his award, Asare will embark on a three-month journey working closely with BBC News teams in London, contributing across television, radio, and online platforms.

During this period, Asare will receive invaluable training and mentorship from prominent BBC journalists. The Ghanaian journalist’s journey will also encompass a venture to an African nation, where he will delve into a story of significance that will resonate with the BBC’s worldwide audiences.

Asare conveyed his elation at receiving the BBC News Komla Dumor Award, stating, “This recognition is one of profound significance for any African journalist. Komla Dumor’s legacy is a source of immense inspiration, and being chosen to walk in his footsteps is a privilege beyond words.”

Joining an illustrious list of past awardees, which includes Dingindaba Jonah Buyoya, Victoria Rubadiri, Solomon Serwanjja, Waihiga Mwaura, Amina Yuguda, Didi Akinyelure, and Nancy Kacungira, Paa Kwesi Asare’s win solidifies his position as a trailblazer in African journalism.

Last year, recipient Dingindaba Jonah Buyoya ventured to the Seychelles to explore the role of ocean plants in addressing climate change, further exemplifying the award’s commitment to thought-provoking and impactful reporting.