Gambian journalist Sankulleh Janko has been awarded Best Radio Broadcaster at the inaugural ECOWAS Excellence Awards for Journalists, held in Banjul on Friday.
Janko was recognised for his outstanding contributions to radio journalism, making him the first and only Gambian to receive an award at the regional event, which honoured twelve journalists from across West Africa.
A respected voice in West African journalism, Janko currently works with West African Democracy Radio in Senegal and serves as a correspondent for Deutsche Welle (DW), Germany’s international broadcaster. His work has long focused on promoting transparency, human rights, and democratic governance through compelling and ethical storytelling.
Speaking after receiving the award, Janko said: “It means a lot to me really. I’m truly humbled. It’s not every day that your work gets to be recognised at the highest standard. I’m truly not so much into awards per se because as journalists our priority is to serve the public interest. However, I can’t say I’m not happy. I am very happy that my humble work is being recognised by an institution like ECOWAS.”
Janko reaffirmed his commitment to journalism as a tool for public service, noting that accolades, while appreciated, are not the reason he chose the profession.
The 2025 ECOWAS Media Excellence Awards, part of celebrations marking ECOWAS @ 50 and Vision 2050, spotlighted the role of journalism in advancing peace, integration, and development across the region.
In her opening remarks, H.E. Mrs Miatta Lily French, ECOWAS Resident Representative in The Gambia, commended the awardees for their courage and originality, noting that their work reflects the hopes and aspirations of West Africa.
Delivering remarks on behalf of H.E. Dr Omar Alieu Touray, ECOWAS Commission President, Hon. Abdoul Kolley, Director of Cabinet, underscored the organisation’s commitment to media as a pillar of democratic resilience and citizen participation.
Twelve journalists from various ECOWAS member states were honoured in categories spanning print, digital, and broadcast media. This has been described by ECOWAS as a celebrated landmark for regional media excellence.
