The winners of the seventh edition of the Prime Minister’s Award for Journalism have described it as a platform for journalists to compete and develop innovative ideas.

They were speaking following the award distribution ceremony, held today under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Photographer Yousif Tulefat, from Bahrain News Agency (BNA), won the “Best Photography Award” for a photo taken of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Holiness Pope Francis during the latter’s visit to Bahrain in November 2022. The photo, which documents a historical event, affirms the coexistence and peace vision advocated by HM King Hamad.

Tulefat said he considered the award a recognition of his 38-year career. He added that the award was a source of motivation for all photographers and journalists to be more dedicated.

He emphasised the importance of photos in journalism, as their impact exceeds that of words, in reflecting and documenting events.

Khalil Yousif from Alayam newspaper, the winner of the “Best Column Award”, expressed pleasure at winning the prestigious award, adding that it was a source of motivation for all the Alayam newspaper family towards more distinction.

He affirmed the importance of the role of the media in serving the country and its people, noting that his opinion piece, “thinking outside the box”, represents a good example of development-related article.

Rashid Al Gha’eb from Al Bilad newspaper, who claimed the “Best Investigative Journalism” award, for his report on “Food Security Initiative”, noted the importance of the award and what it represents in honoring meaningful press content. The investigation dealt with food security initiative in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Hassan Al Sitri from Alwatan newspaper, the laureate of the “Best Interview Award” expressed pride in the award, noting that it affirms the role of the press in supporting national development march.

Mohammed Al Jeyosi from Al Bilad newspaper, the winner of the “Best Interview Award” for conducting and interview with the Dr, Nasser Qaedi, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) CEO said that the press interview gives the journalist a chance to innovate and be competitive.

He expressed pride in being honoured by HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister during the ceremony attended by Dr Ramzan bin Abdulla Al Nuaimi, Minister of Information.

Al Jeyosi affirmed the prestigious award proves the support enjoyed by journalists in Bahrain, adding that he is optimistic about the future of journalism thanks to the unwavering care of HM the King, who believes in the patriotic role of the press and the major role it plays in advancing the kingdom’s comprehensive development process.

Source: Bahrain News Agency