Switzerland– Renowned science journalist and founder of Science Journalism Ghana, Jessica Ahedor, has been honored with two prestigious awards at the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) Conference 2024.
Ahedor received the IFAJ Star Prize for Digital Media and the IFAJ Star Prize for Trade, Economics, and Global Issues for her compelling story titled “Soaring Prices and Dwindling Farm Yields Drive Growing Hunger in Ghana”.
Ahedor’s award-winning story delves into the escalating food prices and decreasing agricultural yields in Ghana, highlighting the severe impact on food security in the country. Her work has been recognized for its in-depth analysis and powerful storytelling, shedding light on the critical challenges facing Ghana's agricultural sector and the broader implications for global food security.
Speaking on the significance of her story, Ahedor emphasized the universal importance of food affordability. "Everybody buys food. So if there's a problem with food prices, then it becomes a major driver of food insecurity," she stated. Her article explores the multifaceted issues contributing to the crisis, from climate change and agricultural practices to economic policies and global market dynamics.
The IFAJ Star Prizes are among the most prestigious awards in agricultural journalism, recognizing outstanding reporting that addresses pressing global issues. Ahedor’s dual recognition underscores her expertise in science communication and her commitment to bringing crucial agricultural issues in Africa to the forefront of global discourse.
The awards were presented during the closing ceremony of the IFAJ Conference, held in Switzerland, which brought together journalists, media professionals, and experts from around the world to discuss and promote excellence in agricultural journalism.
Ahedor’s achievements not only highlight her individual excellence but also mark a significant milestone for science journalism in Ghana and Africa as a whole. Her success is expected to inspire other journalists in the region to pursue impactful stories that address critical issues in their communities.
As the founder of Science Journalism Ghana, Ahedor continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the field of science communication in Africa, working to ensure that vital stories like hers reach a global audience.