Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, The Gambia) – Nyima Sillah, a journalist with The Voice newspaper, has been recognized in the Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2024, securing second place in the Online Prize Category for West Africa. The award celebrates her impactful reporting on social and health issues, particularly those affecting women, such as infertility, education, and empowerment.

This year’s awards saw participation from over 45 countries, with journalists using their platforms to drive awareness on critical challenges faced by communities across Africa. The awards were conducted virtually, highlighting the widespread commitment to advocacy through media.

The official award presentation and certificate ceremony will take place in October 2024 during the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary Conference in The Gambia. The event will be graced by Her Excellency Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, the First Lady of The Gambia, who will honor the awardees for their exceptional contributions.

Nyima Sillah already achieved a milestone in her burgeoning career earlier in December last year, being named the second runner-up in the 2024 Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF) Journalist of the Year Award in the print category.

Her recognition was a testament to the quality of her reporting, which has brought attention to pressing social and political issues in The Gambia and beyond.

About Merck Foundation

The Merck Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Merck Group, is dedicated to improving healthcare access, education, and social development in developing countries. Through its various initiatives, the foundation addresses infertility, women’s empowerment, and education, collaborating with governments, NGOs, and the media to foster long-term change across Africa and Asia.

Sillah’s recognition underscores the vital role of journalism in advocating for social transformation, reinforcing the impact of media in shaping public discourse and influencing policies.