After putting close to 20 years into the media industry, occupying various roles with increasing responsibility, the night of Friday, August 16, 2024, was one like no other for Bakah Derick, a Bamenda-based media professional. In the grandeur of Lewat Hotel Hall in Douala, with Cameroon's top journalists and other personalized gathered, Bakah’s name was called as the recipient of the Agbor Balla Humanitarian and Human Rights Reporter of the Year award at the Victoria International Media Merit Awards (VIIMMA). For Bakah, it marked a pinnacle in his career; an honour earned through years of tireless advocacy for marginalized communities, particularly persons with disabilities.
Bakah Derick emerged from a final list of three including Herve Villard and Moma Sandrine both outstanding Humanitarian and Human Rights Reporters in Cameroon.
For about a decade, Bakah has worked relentlessly to highlight the struggles and triumphs of the underrepresented, focusing especially on disability rights and the need for inclusive development in Cameroon. From his early days as a young reporter to his current role in media leadership, his work has often centered on amplifying the voices of those with functional limitations, pushing for societal change, and calling for inclusive policies.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this award. This recognition is not just for me; it’s for every person with a disability in Cameroon and around the world. It’s for all of us who believe in a future where everyone is included, regardless of their physical or mental challenges. I dedicate this award to all those working tirelessly for a more inclusive society.” Bakah said in his acceptance message after receiving his award in Bamenda since he could not be at the event.
Bakah Derick (in red shirt) after receiving award with collaborators
The Agbor Balla Prize for Best Humanitarian and Human Rights Reporter, named after renowned Cameroonian human rights lawyer Barrister Felix Agbor Nkongho, also known as Agbor Balla, is one of the most prestigious awards by VIIMMA given to journalists who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to reporting on human rights and social justice issues. Bakah’s winning stories have focused on disability rights, accessible infrastructure, and the need for policies that consider all members of society, particularly those often left on the margins. Bakah’s articles are published at www.hilltopvoices.com, a news website of Hilltopvoices Communications Group Ltd; Hilltopvoices Newspaper
Bakah’s reporting has played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in accessing public services such as education and healthcare, as well as basic infrastructure like roads. His investigative work has sparked important conversations in both media and government circles, making disability inclusion a prominent issue in national discussions.
The 2024 VIIMMA ceremony was an evening of celebration for Cameroonian media, with many other outstanding journalists and media professionals receiving awards for their excellence. Lateu Douanla Synthia was recognized with the Elab Geoffrey Prize for Best Print Reporter, while Eric Pondeu took home the TV/Radio Producer of the Year award. Fon Quinta emerged Best TV presenter, Scholar Maloke: Tourism and cross-cultural reporter of the year, Njeck Sylvanus: Best Radio host, Chanceline Nanze, Best Female Sports Report: Boris Esono Nwenfor was honoured as Best Male Sports Journalist and also received the Albert Njie Mbonde Best All-round Journalist Award.
Bakah Derick has called on his colleagues to continue using their platforms for positive change.
“Journalism has always been about more than just reporting the news. It’s about making sure that the people whose stories are often overlooked are given the attention they deserve. This award strengthens my resolve to keep pushing for a world where every voice is heard, and no one is left behind.” he said
Bakah Derick in work mode
His work over the years has demonstrated the power of journalism to not only inform but also inspire action and policy change. From covering stories of children with disabilities who struggle to access education to highlighting the lack of disability-friendly infrastructure in rural communities, Bakah has consistently used his platform to advocate for change, focusing on creating an inclusive society.
Currently the Administrator and Lead Strategist at Hilltopvoices Communications Group Ltd and Vice President incharge of international relations of the Cameroon Journalists' Trade Union (CJTU/SNJC), Bakah reflected on his journey in the media with humility.
“This award is a victory for inclusive journalism. It’s a reminder to all of us that our work has a purpose; to be the voice for those who cannot speak out (the voiceless), to shine a light on injustice, and to help build a society that values every individual. I urge all my colleagues to continue in this important work.”
Bakah Derick’s recognition as the Agbor Balla Humanitarian and Human Rights Reporter of the Year is proof to his relentless pursuit of inclusive development in Cameroon. Recently, Bakah has won awards in inclusive sports and environmental reporting. His career, marked by a profound commitment to human rights and social justice, continues to inspire young journalists and advocates across the nation.
By Asheri Loveline
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