The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF), in partnership with Sanlam, has officially opened nominations for the 2026 Nat Nakasa Awards, recognising journalists who have demonstrated exceptional courage and integrity in the pursuit of truth.
The annual awards honour the legacy of renowned journalist and author Nat Nakasa, whose fearless reporting and commitment to press freedom continue to inspire South Africa’s media industry.
This year’s awards come at a time when journalists face growing challenges, including misinformation, censorship and threats to media freedom. SANEF is calling on editors, media organisations, journalists and members of the public to nominate individuals whose work has advanced accountability, justice and the public interest.
Two awards will be presented: the Nat Nakasa Award for Courageous Journalism, which carries a R20,000 cash prize, and the Nat Nakasa Award for Community Media, with a R10,000 prize.
Entries must be based on work published or broadcast between June 2025 and June 2026 across print, broadcast, digital or community media platforms. Previous winners are not eligible to enter.
Nominations close on 31 July 2026, with winners set to be announced at the Nat Nakasa Awards Ceremony in Johannesburg on 19 September 2026.
The awards continue to celebrate journalists who uphold the highest ethical standards while reporting fearlessly in the face of adversity, reinforcing the critical role of independent journalism in strengthening South Africa’s democracy.
Main Image: Forbes Africa
