Emmanuel Dzivenu’s leukaemia documentary earns West Africa journalism award finalist spot

JoyNews journalist and television producer Emmanuel Dzivenu has been named a finalist in the 2026 Excellence in Journalism Awards, organised by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID). His documentary, “Leukaemia: Last Chance Abroad – Agony of Ghanaians Diagnosed with Blood Cancer,” is among 17 entries shortlisted from 424 submissions by 277 journalists across nine West African countries. The documentary examines the difficulties facing Ghanaians diagnosed with leukaemia who must raise large sums to travel abroad for bone marrow transplants. It describes how delays in securing funds and treatment can cost patients valuable time, while access to specialised transplant services remains limited in Ghana and across the region. Some patients seek care overseas, including in South Africa, according to the report. The investigation also makes the case for creating a Centre for Haematology and Clinical Genetics in Ghana. The proposed centre, the documentary argues, could serve patients from across the subregion and reduce reliance on treatment abroad. Dzivenu’s recognition came after a competitive selection process. CJID said this year’s awards attracted 424 entries, up 54.2 per cent from the 275 received in 2025. Submissions came from Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Guinea and Benin. After an initial screening, the five highest-ranked submissions in each of eight categories moved forward. A six-member panel of journalists then assessed the entries for qualities including accuracy, fairness, originality, research depth, public significance and ethical standards. Hannah Ajakaiye, founding editor of FactsMatter NG, chaired the jury. Ghanaian investigative journalist and editor Manasseh Azure was also among its members. The judges’ deliberations resulted in 17 finalists across eight categories, including Health Reporting, Community Reporting, Human Rights Reporting and Social Accountability. Dzivenu’s shortlisted work brings attention to families navigating a demanding search for specialist cancer care.