Kigali, 19 September 2025 — The Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), in partnership with the Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) Rwanda Chapter, celebrated outstanding journalists and digital influencers for their excellence in reporting on agricultural biotechnology at the 4th Edition of the OFAB Media Awards (OMA 2025), held at Urban Park Hotel in Kigali.

Since its launch in 2006, OFAB has promoted science-based dialogue on biotechnology through its chapters across Africa, including Rwanda. The OFAB Media Awards were established to recognize ethical, professional, and impactful journalism that strengthens public understanding of biotechnology’s role in food security, economic growth, and sustainable development.

This year’s event introduced a new category—Digital & Social Media Influencers—reflecting the growing role of digital platforms in countering misinformation, amplifying accurate narratives, and engaging younger audiences in conversations about biotechnology.

Winners of OMA 2025

Overall Winner: Pio Mbarushimana (Rwanda Broadcasting Agency)

Radio Category: Winner – Prudence Kwizera (Radio Salus); Runner-Up – Florentine Mukarubayiza (Radio Huguka)

Television Category: Winner – Pio Mbarushimana (Rwanda Broadcasting Agency); Runner-Up – Bihoyiki Kevin (BTN TV)

Print & Online Media Category: Winner – Michel Nkurunziza (The New Times); Runner-Up – Elias Hakizimana (The Inspirer)

Digital Content & Social Media Category: Winner – Alexis Nyandwi; Runner-Up – Yvette Shimo Umurerwa

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Florence Uwamahoro, the Deputy Director General in charge of Agriculture Development at RAB, commended the winners for their role in advancing accurate, ethical, and impactful storytelling. “By promoting responsible journalism, we ensure that biotechnology is understood as a driver of agricultural transformation, food security, and sustainable development in Rwanda and beyond,” she noted.

OMA 2025 reaffirmed the critical role of the media in shaping public perception of science and innovation. The awards also strengthened partnerships between media, policymakers, and scientists, while inspiring more journalists and communicators to embrace science-based reporting that fosters innovation, resilience, and prosperity for Rwanda’s agriculture sector. 

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