The 2024 Climate Change Photo Essay Prize has been awarded to Garba Bakura from Nigeria. The judging process, conducted anonymously over two rounds, was carefully structured to ensure a fair evaluation based on various criteria. Bakura’s insightful work, In Search for A Drop, highlights the increasing importance of water and the infrastructures that support farming communities surrounded by deserts.

In addition to Bakura, four other finalists will be showcased in the exhibition:

Ahmed Abubakar Bature (Nigeria): After the Waters: Tales of Flood, Displacement, and Resilience;

Jules Munyantore (Rwanda): Caught in the Tide of Change;

Adedolapo Boluwatife Abimbola (Nigeria): Invitation to Invade; and

David Olayide (Nigeria): Zero Green.

Furthermore, four entries were highly commended:

Edgar Kanyike (Uganda): Lake Victoria – aka Nalubaale – Takes Over;

Aida Namukose (Kenya): Men of the Water;

Cheikh Oumar Diallo (Senegal): Victim or Responsible; and

Hamadomo Timothe Guindo (Mali): Architecture Traditionnelle.

Rising Urgency, Changing Views

In its second year, the prize invites individuals aged 18-30 from Africa and its diaspora to submit 3-5 photographs capturing the impacts of climate change today. The theme for this year, “At a Crossroad: Climate and Change,” emphasizes the importance of Africa-centric stories within the global sustainability discussion—an aspect often viewed through a western perspective, despite Africa’s significant role in the ongoing social and environmental changes.

“It is vital to hear African perspectives on climate change, especially from youth, as these issues will increasingly influence their lives,” stated Nkiru Balonwu, founder of the ASP Group. “The judges found Bakura’s work to be outstanding; however, all finalists—and many other entries—exhibited an exceptionally high caliber, making our selection process quite difficult. This year, the volume of entries was immense, clearly demonstrating the desire to address this pressing topic.”

Expert Assessment

The judging panel was composed of five specialists, each bringing unique backgrounds and expertise:

Adenrele Sonariwo (Nigeria): Founder, Rele Gallery & Rele Art Foundation;

Mario Macilau (Mozambique): Multi-Disciplinary Artist and Activist

Paula Moreno (Colombia): Founder, Corporación Manos Visibles

Kojo Boakye (Ghana): VP, Public Policy, Africa, Middle East, and Türkiye, META and

Adriana Barbosa (Brazil): Founder & CEO, PretaHub.

The decision to use photography as a medium was intentional, acknowledging its ability to convey universal messages about a global challenge requiring collaborative efforts across various demographics. Additionally, the prevalent visual language employed by younger generations on social media renders photography as a prime avenue for engaging them in meaningful discussions regarding this urgent issue.

As part of the international exhibition, Bakura will receive a cash prize for his winning piece and broader media support to elevate his work. All participants retain full copyright over their entries.