Midlands’ 98.4 FM Dominates National Journalism Awards

GWERU – Journalists from Gweru-based 98.4  Midlands FM, a subsidiary of AB Communications, delivered an outstanding performance at this year’s inaugural Midlands Journalism and Media Awards (NJAMA), scooping four major accolades across six competitive categories.

The awards ceremony, held on Friday, saw the station’s reporters emerge among the top performers, underscoring the broadcaster’s growing influence in Zimbabwe’s media landscape.

Leading the winners’ list was news reporter and anchor Catherine Masocha, who secured three prestigious accolades: Business Reporter of the Year, Mining Reporter of the Year runner-up, and   Best Overall Female Reporter of the Year.
Elias Maginya, popularly known as DJ Vass, also made a strong impression after being named Runner-Up for Best Presenter/Storyteller of the Year and earning recognition as Best Overall Male Reporter of the Year. Meanwhile, fellow news reporter and anchor Tinani Nyabereka walked away with the Best Political Reporter of the Year award.

Speaking after the ceremony, station manager Victoria Nyanhete said she was “on cloud nine,” describing the achievement as a defining moment for the fast-growing radio station. She noted that the accolades reflect not only individual excellence but also the station’s strong newsroom culture, teamwork, and commitment to public interest journalism.

“I am immensely proud of our team’s achievements at the ZUJ Awards. Catherine, Vass, Tinani and Flata have demonstrated not only individual brilliance but also the collective spirit that defines our station,” she said.

Nyanhete added that the recognition affirms the station’s editorial direction, which prioritises impactful storytelling, community engagement, and professional excellence.

“These awards are a testament to their dedication, creativity and commitment to serving our community through impactful journalism. Each story they produce speaks to the realities of our people and contributes meaningfully to national discourse,” she said.

She also commended the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) for consistently recognising excellence and providing a platform that motivates media practitioners to uphold high standards.

“We are deeply grateful to ZUJ for creating a platform that recognises and celebrates excellence in our industry. Their continued support inspires us to keep raising the bar and contributing meaningfully to society,” she added.

Nyanhete emphasised that the station remains committed to nurturing talent, upholding ethical journalism, and delivering credible, balanced, and development-oriented news to its audiences across the Midlands Province and beyond.

The strong showing by 98.4  Midlands FM reinforces its position as a key player in Zimbabwe’s broadcasting sector, with its journalists continuing to set benchmarks in reporting, storytelling, and public interest journalism.

98.4 Midlands FM, the largest commercial radio station in the Midlands Province, first went on air in 2017. Broadcasting from Gweru, the station serves a diverse audience in the mineral-rich province and has earned recognition for promoting local talent.

The station has played a pivotal role in elevating musicians such as Skiddo Chikandamina, Samukoko, Nyasha David, Defeater King, and Oxygen, among others.

Broadcasting in English, chiShona, and isiNdebele, the station caters to a cosmopolitan audience through a wide range of engaging and community-driven programming.

The Wake-Up Call, co-hosted by Reason Sekeremo—popularly known as Sewuru or Mufudzi wemombe—which has built a loyal following through its lively delivery, puzzles, and strong audience interaction.
Dandaro, hosted by Victoria Nyanhete, affectionately known as Dynamite, a programme that continues to grow in popularity among listeners.

The Drive, hosted by DJ Vass and Ginger, a listener favourite during peak hours.The station also offers informative and impactful talk programming, including a current affairs programme, formerly hosted by Vincent Mhene and now anchored by Tinani Nyabereka, as well as Youth and Health Talk, hosted by Catherine Masocha, which focuses on critical social and health issues affecting communities.