Bungoma: A Bungoma based photojournalist has earned a global award in an international photo competition. Dishon Amanya's photo titled 'Community Resilience - Water Access Solutions in Times of Drought' was named the winner in the Governance Solutions category of the international photo competition.
According to Kenya News Agency, the competition is a joint initiative by the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCDD), the Global Water Partnership (GWP), and the International Drought Resilience Alliance (IDRA). The competition attracted 135 entries from 59 countries, with participants capturing photographs on strategies for addressing water scarcity, land degradation, and drought through visual storytelling.
Amanya's photo depicts a common scene in rural areas where residents of all ages gather at a communal water source during the dry season. The photo was taken in Kimilili, Bungoma County, at an event organized by an NGO to launch a water project in the area during a severe drought.
Speaking to KNA in Bungoma, Amanya explained that the photo illustrates a communal water source where people come together with a shared purpose of fetching water. He noted that the image reflects the strength of the community and the result of effective governance and collaboration between the government and non-governmental organizations.
Amanya shared that his upbringing in Western Kenya exposed him to environmental challenges like drought, which adversely affected residents. He uses his camera to raise awareness among the community and leadership about these issues. He believes that images have the power to inform the public, initiate dialogue, and drive change on topics such as human self-esteem, governance, and climate change.
The international recognition has amplified Amanya's work on a global platform, offering opportunities to collaborate with a broader range of organizations. He hopes the photo sends a message to policymakers that climate resilience begins at the grassroots level. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing inclusive, community-led solutions and supporting systems that reach the grassroots.
The photojournalist plans to expand his coverage of climate governance across more regions in East Africa. He aims to continue using photography to influence policy-making and mentor young journalists.