Ndzi Eileen Achvungha (SEVIC-HITM Journalism Student on Internship)
Veteran broadcaster Amy Banda has been crowned Africa’s Best TV Presenter, receiving the continent’s top accolade in recognition of her decades-long career, compelling storytelling and unwavering commitment to elevating African voices on screen.
Lassane Oulare, President of the organising committee of TAKAD Cote d’Ivoire and Amy Banda
Two weeks after an anonymous nomination, Amy confirmed via social media that she was a contender for one of the continent’s most prestigious media honors. On Jan. 23, the anticipation culminated at the Sofitel Hotel in Abidjan, where she was officially crowned the “Best TV Presenter of the Year” at the sixth edition of the TAKAD African Excellence awards.
“I mobilized my community to support me, and they voted enthusiastically,” Amy said, reflecting on the pan-African vote that secured her victory. “This recognition came just after I had returned to television with a new program called Action Woman.”
The award marks a significant chapter in Amy’s career, placing her ahead of other renowned industry figures. For her, the win was as much about internal grit as it was about external validation.
“Two days after receiving the award, I reflected on what it meant to me personally,” she said. “It felt like a mental game—a reward for my resilience and strength.”
Professionally, the accolade serves as a powerful endorsement of her versatility. “Winning against such respected names is a huge boost to my CV, and it opens doors to even greater opportunities,” she added.
Amy’s rise to the top of the media landscape was built on a foundation of investigative reporting and community-focused programming. In 2017, she received international acclaim from CEO Global for her reporting on the Lake Basin crisis in Ghana. Her work exposed how a manufacturing project intended to provide potable water was simultaneously endangering local children by failing to manage industrial waste.
Throughout her tenure at West TV, POALA FM, and CRTV, she has been a prolific creator of content. From launching Voice of the Voiceless to developing educational programming like Classes at Your Doorstep during the COVID-19 pandemic, Amy has consistently used her platform to address societal needs.
“My voice, diction, and unique presentation style made it difficult for listeners to tune in without wanting to stay,” she noted.
Today, Amy continues to lead Action Woman on CRTV Littoral and hosts “Suellaba Feelings” on Suellaba FM 105, a program blending music and education. However, her influence extends beyond the studio. As the founder of the Target Peace Promotion Movement, she advocates against gender-based violence and femicide, holding weekly sessions that draw participants from South Africa, Nigeria, and the United Kingdom.
Despite her extensive list of accolades—including covering the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and various international festivals—Amy remains focused on the next generation of media professionals. Her advice to those entering the field is rooted in the same persistence that defined her journey.
“My message is simple: hard work pays,” Amy said. “Passion must be kept alive, even in the face of challenges. There is space for everyone in the media landscape, provided they practice with integrity and dedication.”
