The Harambee Africa International Foundation has announced officially the 11th edition of its Harambee International Award titled “Conveying Africa—Telling the Africa that Surprises.”
This prestigious award in the world celebrates the art of storytelling that reveals Africa’s innovation, vitality, and the power of transformation. The award seeks filmmakers and journalists, as well as organizations and young artists who are committed to altering the narratives of the world about Africa by creating authentic, inspirational, innovative, and inspiring audiovisual works.
Deadline Not yet confirmed (2026 cycle).
The award is given to stories that transcend stereotypes and capture Africa’s imagination and resilience, as well as the community-driven solutions that create the pace of change.
About the Award
Harambee International Award The Harambee International Award helps media creators and professionals to portray an authentic portrayal that is authentically African—one that is reflective of the continent’s richness in culture, determination, resilience, and willingness to change.
In its 11th year, the contest continues to encourage a better understanding of Africa’s socio-economic development by honoring outstanding audiovisual work by journalists or NGOs as well as young storytellers.
The entries should highlight actual stories of inclusion, creativity, family, education, entrepreneurial spirit, and family – and present Africa as a source that offers opportunities and potential for transformation.
Objectives
The award aims to:
- Promote authentic and empowering narratives about Africa.
- Highlight local innovations and solutions that inspire change.
- Encourage creative audiovisual storytelling from professionals and youth.
- Strengthen intercultural understanding through media and communication.
- Recognize and reward storytellers who present Africa as a continent of growth and resilience.
Priority Themes
The 2026 award cycle will focus on storytelling that aligns with the following thematic areas:
- Education and Training – as tools for human development and social progress.
- Human Dignity – emphasizing equality and respect in every cultural or social context.
- Solidarity and Cooperation – promoting community strength and collaboration.
- The Family Unit – as the foundation for personal and social growth.
- Intercultural Integration – fostering understanding and peaceful coexistence in global societies.
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship – celebrating creativity serving the common good.
- Access to Sustainable Energy – supporting education, healthcare, and community resilience.
These themes collectively express Africa’s diversity, talent, and optimism, inviting storytellers to document the continent’s evolution with authenticity and hope.
Award Categories and Prize
The competition is divided into four main categories, each designed to recognize a specific type of audiovisual production:
| Category | Eligible Participants | Video Duration | Prize (€) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A – Professional Productions | Individual video-makers, journalists, or independent professionals | Up to 60 minutes | €1,500 |
| B – Nonprofit Organization Productions | NGOs, associations, or social entities with communication goals | Up to 60 minutes | €1,500 |
| C – Commercial Entity Productions | Agencies, broadcasters, or production companies with higher technical capacity | Up to 60 minutes | €1,500 |
| D – Young Creatives (Under 25) | Students and young creators (direct African experience not required) | Up to 5 minutes | €500 |
Winners in categories A, B, and C will each receive a €1,500 prize, while young creatives under category D will be awarded €500.
All awards are subject to applicable tax regulations.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants include:
- Professional journalists and videographers producing independent media work.
- Nonprofit and humanitarian organizations using audiovisual storytelling for advocacy.
- Production agencies or communication firms promoting development-focused content.
- Young individuals under 25 years old with creative storytelling potential.
Submissions must present original work that promotes Africa’s authentic identity and aligns with one or more of the award’s priority themes.
For Category D, applicants do not need direct African experience, but their stories must reflect themes of coexistence, resilience, and inclusion.
Submission Guidelines
Applicants are encouraged to prepare audiovisual productions that meet the following criteria:
- Format: Video entries (documentary, short film, report, or creative audiovisual content).
- Language: Entries may be in any language but must include English or French subtitles.
- Length:
- 60 minutes maximum for Categories A–C.
- 5 minutes maximum for Category D (young creatives).
- Content: Stories must focus on Africa’s development, innovation, and human dignity.
- Submission: Entries must be submitted through the official Harambee Africa International portal along with a short description, applicant bio, and production details.
Only one submission per applicant or organization will be accepted.
Evaluation Criteria
Entries will be reviewed by an independent international jury based on the following:
- Originality – uniqueness of storytelling and creative direction.
- Authenticity – accuracy in representing Africa’s diversity and complexity.
- Impact – ability to inspire, educate, and challenge stereotypes.
- Relevance – alignment with the competition’s thematic focus.
- Technical and Artistic Quality – visual, narrative, and production excellence.
Key Dates and Timeline
| Event | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Call for Applications Opens | Ongoing |
| Submission Deadline | To be confirmed (2026 cycle) |
| Jury Review Period | Early 2026 |
| Winners Announced | Mid-2026 |
| Award Ceremony | 2026 – Date and venue to be announced |
Why It Matters for Africa
The Harambee International Award serves as a platform to reframe global perceptions of Africa. It invites storytellers to portray an Africa full of creativity, courage, and progress — not merely defined by challenges, but by its solutions, resilience, and human potential.
For Nigerian and African journalists, filmmakers, and students, this award represents a unique opportunity to:
- Gain international visibility for their storytelling.
- Connect with global media professionals and development organizations.
- Showcase Africa’s strength, innovation, and cultural richness.
- Inspire future generations through narratives rooted in pride and progress.
Summary Table
| Award Name | 11th Edition of the Harambee International Award in Africa |
|---|---|
| Organizer | Harambee Africa International Foundation |
| Prize Value | €1,500 per main category; €500 for youth creatives |
| Eligible Applicants | Journalists, NGOs, producers, and youth under 25 |
| Focus Areas | Authentic African storytelling, innovation, human dignity |
| Submission Type | Audiovisual productions |
| Video Length | Up to 60 min (A–C), 5 min (D) |
| Geographic Focus | Africa and global partners promoting African narratives |
| Deadline | 2026 (exact date TBA) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the award?
Journalists, filmmakers, NGOs, production companies, and young creatives under 25 years old.
2. Is experience in Africa required?
No. For the youth category, entries may focus on themes of integration, solidarity, or resilience, even without direct experience in Africa.
3. What format should my entry be in?
Audiovisual formats such as short documentaries, video reports, or creative films.
4. How many entries can I submit?
Only one submission per individual or organization.
5. Are there specific storytelling themes?
Yes. Entries should reflect Africa’s authentic narrative—education, family, innovation, sustainability, or dignity.
6. Is there an entry fee?
No, participation is free.
7. What are the prize amounts?
€1,500 for categories A–C and €500 for category D.
8. Can organizations outside Africa apply?
Yes, provided the content focuses on African stories or perspectives.
9. Will the winners be invited to an award ceremony?
Yes, an official award ceremony will take place in 2026, hosted by Harambee Africa International.
10. How will entries be judged?
By an independent panel of experts in journalism, film, and cultural communication.
Conclusion
It is the 11th Harambee International Award in Africa, and it is more than just a contest—it’s an opportunity to celebrate Africa’s changing identity. By encouraging storytellers to share real, transformative tales This initiative highlights the continent’s uniqueness through the power of imagination, courage, and innovation.
To African journalists as well as filmmakers and young people This award is an opportunity to show the real Africa—an Africa that is innovative, inspiring, and inspires.
Disclaimer
FederalGrantsInfo.com publishes this announcement for educational and informational purposes only. Candidates should confirm eligibility requirements and submit their applications via the Harambee Africa International Foundation’s official Harambee Africa International Foundation portal before the closing date.