The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Lesotho and Lesotho Planned Parenthood Association sponsored media awards ceremony will be held on January 28, at Mpilo Lodge, Maseru. 

Aimed at recognizing the media's integral role in the advancement of democracy and socio-economic development, the awards are to be presented by the Minister of Communications Science and Technology, Mr. Motsoahae Thabane and the president of the LPPA, Mr. Tlohang Sekhamane. 

MISA Lesotho chairman Mr. Thabo Thakalekoala said the awards will be presented in all categories including print media, photography, radio and television. Awards will also be presented to journalists who wrote the best objective report on politics and development; best reporting on HIV/AIDS and gender issues; the best investigative reporting; and best economic reporting.

A panel of judges comprising a member of the MISA Lesotho national executive committee; one member from civil society (Lesotho Council of Non-Governmental Organizations - LCN); one media representative; one Member of Parliament; one representative of the Ministry of Communications; and one representative of LPPA will adjudicate.

There will be seven winners each of whom will get a M1, 000 prize, Mr. Thakalekoala said.

24 January 2006