Star journalist Agatha Ngotho shines after scooping OFAB award

‘It's been a journey driven by passion and consistency and I look forward to telling science stories,’

These were the words of Star Journalist Agatha Ngotho who bagged an award at the just concluded OFAB -Kenya Media awards.

The Science reporter, who specialises in Agriculture emerged the overall winner after submitting three stories on agricultural biotechnology.

Vincent Anguche, from Radio Citizen, Royal Media Services and  Victor Muturi, Radio France International tied for the 1st Runners up position.

The Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa (OFAB) Kenya Media Awards Gala was held at the Serena Hotel on October 14, 2022.

Despite her not being present to receive the award, Ngotho expressed her gratitude after being informed of her victory.

"It's an honour to be recognised in science writing. The award is timely, coming at a time when biotechnology particularly GMO is a topical issue,' she said.

The Star Reporter commended the farmers and experts who continue to share their knowledge and trust her in sharing their stories through her writing.

Ngotho also thanked the Star editors and colleagues for their support and encouragement.

"I also appreciate the Star newspaper for giving me space to tell the stories. It's been a journey driven by passion and consistency and I look forward to telling science stories," she added.

The Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa (OFAB) Kenya Chapter announced the annual OFAB Media Awards in June this year.

It featured Kenyan journalists reporting on agricultural biotechnology from August 31, 2021 to August 31, 2022.

Speaking at the awards, Margaret Karembu, Director of ISAAA-AfriCenter (International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications – Africa region applauded the media's contribution towards the crop biotech progress.

Karembu who is also the chairperson of the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa (OFAB – Kenya Chapter)  said Kenya’s media have made an invaluable contribution to the growth of agricultural biotechnology in the country by making the subject a public agenda item.

"The media have critically sensitised and educated the Kenyan public on crop biotechnology hence stimulating dialogue on its effective utilisation," she added.

Karembu applauded the winners and all journalists whose contribution has increased the dissemination of factual information on agricultural biotechnology.