Ugochi Anyaka, a radio reporter from Nigeria, has won the UNEP Young Environmental Journalist Award (YEJA), beating over 120 entries from reporters across Africa.

Ms. Anyaka (29) received her award at a special ceremony held during the 12th Special Session of the UNEP Governing Council / Global Ministerial Environment Forum in Nairobi, Kenya.

The winning report, entitled Saving the Trees for Paper Briquettes, was broadcast on ASO Radio in Nigeria, where Ms. Anyaka works as a journalist and presenter.

The radio feature profiled a project in a low-income suburb of Abuja that manufactures briquettes from waste paper, in order to provide an alternative fuel to traditional firewood.

The project aims to reduce the health risks associated with indoor use of wood fuel, reduce deforestation and provide a source of income for the briquette makers. Ms. Anyaka’s report also discusses the role of the Kyoto Protocol’s Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).

“This story was done to show the opportunities in a changing climate - and not just the woes,” said Ugochi Anyaka. “It also seeks to show the conflicting view points about the Clean Development Mechanism.

But ultimately, it tells the story of what some Nigerians are doing to protect their vulnerable environment and save their very existence. Winning the UNEP Young Environmental Journalist Award is the greatest moment of joy in my career. It is such an honour to be recognised in this manner,” she added.

For more information on the winner, please visit: Ugochi Anyaka Wins UNEP Yeja Award