The Cameroon Association of English-Speaking Journalists (CAMASEJ) has welcomed the launch of the Peter Essoka Prize for Excellence in Journalism, describing the initiative as a meaningful step toward reinforcing professionalism and rewarding merit in Cameroon’s media landscape. The Prize was announced by the Minister Delegate at the Ministry of External Relations, Felix Mbayu as part of activities in the build up to the 2026 Commonwealth Day on March 9, 2026.
In a statement reacting to the announcement, CAMASEJ said it was “delighted” by the creation of the prize, an initiative led by its newly inducted Patron, H.E. Felix Mbayu, Minister Delegate to the Minister of External Relations in charge of Relations with the Commonwealth.
CAMASEJ National President Jude Viban said the association views the new award as both symbolic and practical support for the journalism profession.
“This prize is a strong and inspiring sign of his continued commitment to the promotion of quality journalism in Cameroon,” he said.
Honouring the Essoka legacy
The prize is named after veteran media figure Peter Essoka, widely regarded in Cameroon’s journalism circles as a trail-blazer whose career has been marked by decades of service to the profession. By attaching the award to his name, CAMASEJ believes the initiative draws from a legacy that many young journalists can learn from.
“By honouring a trail-blazing veteran, peter Essoka, the initiative celebrates the values of professionalism, courage and service that define our association and profession,” Viban noted.
A welcome boost for broadcast excellence
Details contained in the official press release indicate that the award will recognise outstanding newscasters and media animators based on criteria such as diction, articulation, delivery and overall professionalism. Each winner will receive a cash prize of 500,000 CFA francs.
CAMASEJ says the focus on broadcast performance responds to the continued influence of radio and television in shaping public discourse in Cameroon. The association also welcomed the involvement of Che Lindolf Ndongnyam, CEO of Merdolf Sarl, whose partnership is supporting the initiative.
CAMASEJ further recalled Minister Mbayu’s earlier sponsorship of the Monica Chunji Mbayu Prize during the North West Media Forum organised by the Bamenda Chapter of the association.
The association has since urged its members and media practitioners nationwide to give the new prize strong visibility and to participate actively once the process opens.
As the March 2026 rollout approaches, stakeholders within Cameroon’s media sector will be watching closely to see how the Peter Essoka Prize contributes to ongoing efforts to strengthen professional standards and celebrate merit in the country’s evolving journalism landscape.