Chamber Quality Awards Celebrate Excellence
Eye Radio, the independent broadcaster based in Juba, was named Best Media House of the Year during the Chamber Quality Awards 2025, an annual gala organised by the South Sudan Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture.
The mid-week ceremony gathered business leaders, policy makers and civil society to honour performers bolstering the young nation’s economy and services, signalling confidence in sectors ranging from telecommunications to public information.
Criteria Behind Eye Radio’s Victory
Jury members praised the station’s consistency in accurate, credible and timely reporting, qualities the CEO Stephen Omiri says reflect the ‘legacy power’ of independent journalism amid South Sudan’s shifting media landscape.
Program Manager Koang Pal Chang noted the accolade coincides with the awards’ tenth anniversary, framing it as both recognition and mandate to deepen coverage of economic, investment and trade issues vital to national recovery.
Newsroom Reactions and Dedications
Omiri dedicated the trophy to reporters working long hours in remote counties, as well as to audiences whose feedback keeps programmes interactive and relevant.
Staff members describe the win as morale-boosting, especially after operating through fuel shortages, inflation and intermittent power cuts that challenge broadcast consistency.
Economic Stakeholders Laud Partnership Potential
Eye Radio leadership invited companies to advertise and sponsor awareness campaigns, arguing that sustainable, independent media is essential for investor confidence and informed markets.
Vice President Dr Wani Igga, Minister Atong Kuol Manyang and MTN chief Mapula Bodibe, also honoured, echoed calls for closer collaboration between press and private sector to nurture growth.
Looking Ahead for South Sudan Media Landscape
Chang signalled an editorial shift toward deeper business reporting, stating, ‘This is the time we must prove ourselves’, a message aligning with the Chamber’s broader vision for transparency in commerce.
Analysts say the award may inspire other outlets to raise standards, reinforcing the role credible journalism plays in stabilising a fragile economy and supporting inclusive development.