Mbabane – The Eswatini National Journalists Association has confirmed that the 2025 National Media Awards will be held on December 22 at Royal Villas, starting at 6.30pm, following the resolution of logistical challenges that had delayed the event.
The announcement was made on December 11 after a meeting between the ESNAJ Executive Committee and members of the Editors Forum to deliberate on issues surrounding the organisation of the awards. The event had initially been scheduled for December 12 but was postponed to December 20 due to late entries, largely attributed to difficulties with the online entry format, as well as unfinished negotiations with the main sponsor who had committed to covering the costs of hosting the awards.
ESNAJ said the sponsor has since come on board, enabling the association to secure a venue for the prestigious event. The executive committee also reported strong support from corporates and other sponsors, which is expected to contribute to an awards night dedicated to celebrating storytellers and honouring journalism as a craft, in line with the 2025 National Media Awards theme. 
ESNAJ president Lwazi Dlamini thanked members for the patience and understanding shown as the association navigated what he described as demanding logistical challenges since preparations began. He also expressed appreciation to the ESNAJ Executive Committee, the Editors Forum and consultant MARC for their efforts in organising the event.
Dlamini further thanked journalists who took time to submit their work across the various award categories, noting that their participation is valued as ESNAJ works towards rebuilding the integrity of the journalism profession in Eswatini. He said the awards night marks a significant milestone for the profession, with further details expected to be communicated ahead of December 22.
