From behind the camera to news maker: Joy as Zipporah Achieng scoops top AMWIK award
It was a night of celebration, inspiration, and recognition as the Association of Media Women in Kenya hosted its inaugural Women Awards in a colourful event held in Nairobi.
Among the standout winners was rising media professional Zipporah Achieng Owigo, who was honoured as a young woman making remarkable strides in the industry.
The awards, which brought together leading voices in journalism and media, aimed to spotlight excellence and amplify the contributions of women shaping Kenya’s media landscape.
According to the judges, Achieng stood out in a highly competitive selection process, impressing the panel with her dedication, resilience, and unique impact in a male-dominated field.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, an emotional Achieng described the moment as both overwhelming and fulfilling.
“I was shaking when my name was called,” she said with a smile. “This is my first award in the media industry. It has given me a different kind of strength and motivation to go beyond the sky and overcome all odds.”
Achieng’s journey has not only been defined by professional growth but also by memorable personal experiences that have shaped her outlook.
One such moment that captured public attention was her encounter with the mother of President William Ruto during an assignment in Uasin Gishu County. While covering an event, she was approached by Mama Sarah Ruto, who gently advised her on her attire and covered her with a leso.
Rather than taking offence, Achieng embraced the moment as a lesson in humility and cultural respect.
“I was deeply touched by the president’s mother correcting me,” she recalled. “She even gave me a Maasai kikoi, which I used to cover myself. I respect my elders, and I believe learning is a continuous process.”
Professionally, Achieng has carved out a unique space for herself as the only female camera operator in Kenya’s North Rift region.
Based in Eldoret, she works alongside Citizen TV reporter John Wanyama, consistently delivering compelling visuals and high-quality footage. Her role, often perceived as physically demanding and traditionally reserved for men, involves handling heavy equipment and staying at the forefront of breaking news coverage.
Despite the challenges, Achieng approaches her work with confidence and passion. Colleagues describe her as hardworking, focused, and always wearing a smile, even in high-pressure situations. For her, the camera is not just a tool—it is a calling.
“Camera work is my passion,” she said. “It’s not just about capturing images; it’s about telling stories that matter.”
Beyond her professional life, Achieng is also an active online content creator and a devoted member of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church, where she participates in choir activities.
Her ability to balance her career, faith, and personal interests reflects her discipline and commitment to growth.
As she celebrates this milestone, Achieng remains grounded and forward-looking. She is determined to continue breaking barriers and inspiring other young women to pursue careers in media, regardless of societal expectations.
With her unwavering determination and growing recognition, Zipporah Achieng Owigo be is not just making headlines, she is redefining what it means to be a woman in the media industry in Kenya.
