Cintia A. , Lebledparle.com
Award-winning Cameroonian journalist Mimi Mefo Newuh was awarded the Excellence in International Journalism Award by the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas Tech University. A reward for her fearless coverage of press freedom, human rights, and political crises in Cameroon and the rest of the world.
Since establishing Mimi Mefo Info (MMI), Mefo has persisted in pushing the limits of investigative reporting, shedding light on stories that the mainstream media would sit out. Her commitment to holding power accountable and amplifying the voiceless has earned her a reputation to be reckoned with in African journalism.
The award was presented during the 2025 Graduate Student Research Symposium on March 28 at a Vice Provost for International Affairs, Dean’s Office, Harris Institute for Hispanic and International Studies, and William S. Morris Endowed Professorship-hosted event. The award further cements her position as Africa’s leading independent female journalist
Reacting to the award, Mefo expressed her gratitude on Facebook:
“I am greatly honoured to receive the Excellence Award in International Journalism from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, US. I receive this prestigious award with immense gratitude, humility, and joy. It reminds me that the work you do today, irrespective of how small it may seem in your eyes or the eyes of others, someone, somewhere, is watching.”
“This award tells me that hard work comes with its own reward. And the greatest reward isn’t money; it’s recognition. When I founded MMI, my vision was simple: to give a voice to the masses. That vision remains unchanged to this day, despite the hostile media environment in Cameroon and the threats from the country’s dictatorial regime.”
“I dedicate this award to all my colleagues who believe that independent and objective journalism is still possible, even in the face of suppression and attacks. I dedicate it to my colleagues in jail and those who can’t do their jobs for fear of attacks or persecution. I want to honour those who lost their lives standing for the truth. I also j it to the incredible team behind MMI. Without your hard work and dedication, I would not be here today.”
This award is a testament of her hard work knowing fully well the dangers she faced in Cameroon as a journalist before traveling out the country. With press freedom being a challenge in many parts of the world, awards like this highlight the significance of courageous journalism. Mimi Mefo Newuh’s is not just a personal achievement but a victory for journalists committed to truth and justice.
