Selma Ikela and Ketemba Tjipepa Triumph in One Economy Foundation’s Inaugural Journalism Awards for Exposing Tragic Incident

In a recent announcement, Selma Ikela and Ketemba Tjipepa have emerged victorious in the field of journalism, securing the second runner-up position in the television category. The duo, with Selma hailing from One Africa Television, was recognized for their outstanding work in shedding light on a heartbreaking incident involving the murder of a 16-year-old pregnant girl in Okahandja.

The gripping story, documented late last year, showcased the journalists’ dedication to investigative reporting and their commitment to uncovering the truth behind the tragic event. In an exclusive interview, Selma Ikela, the editor at One Africa Television, shared insights into their approach and the impact of the story.

The first step in their journalistic journey was to establish connections with community activists in Windhoek, seeking information about potential sources in Okahandja. Their efforts proved fruitful when they successfully engaged with a community activist named Seth, who played a pivotal role in facilitating access to the family affected by the tragedy.

Seth, acting as a bridge between the media and the grieving family, paved the way for an empathetic exploration of the story. The community had already gathered at the house where the young girl lost her life, creating a poignant backdrop for the journalists to delve into the narrative surrounding the 16-year-old’s untimely demise.

Ikela expressed her satisfaction at being nominated for the category, citing the personal connection she felt to the story due to its focus on gender-based violence. Despite ongoing efforts to address such issues through media reporting, the scourge continues to afflict communities across the country.

The victim, a 16-year-old girl who was also pregnant, left behind a grieving mother who not only lost her daughter but also her grandchild. Ikela emphasized the touching aspect of the story, recounting the emotional interview with the mother who grappled with the loss of both her daughter and unborn grandchild. The perpetrators of the crime were initially unknown, with the incident occurring in the evening as the victim was on her way to her boyfriend’s place. Ikela highlighted the significance of being recognized for bringing community issues to the forefront and addressing the daily struggles faced by people.

Expressing gratitude for the nomination, Ikela conveyed her commitment to continuing to cover community stories and bringing people’s narratives to the forefront. The acknowledgment serves as motivation for the journalists to delve deeper into the communities they serve, exposing the challenges and triumphs of individuals on a day-to-day basis.

In conclusion, Selma Ikela and Ketemba Tjipepa’s journalism win not only highlights their exceptional reporting skills but also underscores the importance of media in bringing attention to critical community issues. Their dedication to storytelling serves as an inspiration, encouraging a renewed commitment to uncovering the stories that matter.