Standard Group journalist shines at Safal Eye photo contest

Standard Group journalist Denish Ochieng (right) receives a USD 3,000 dummy cheque from Parks and Reserves Deputy Director Dickson Ritan during the Safal Eye in the Wild Photography Competition 2023 awards in Nairobi. [ Denis Kibuchi, Satandard]

Standard Group journalist Denish Ochieng has won the Safal Eye in the Wild Photography Competition 2023 with a photo that captures the effects of drought on wildlife and communities in Kenya.

He received USD 3,000 (Sh 462,926) as the first prize.

The competition, which ran from July 28 to October 15, 2023, had the theme "Drought." It aimed to raise awareness about environmental conservation and the power of innovation in combating the scourge.

It attracted over 1,800 entries from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Africa.

Ochieng's winning photo showcased the dry conditions in North Horr, a town in Marsabit County, and the community's efforts to restore greenery by planting trees.

The photo depicted the harsh reality of drought and its impact on both humans and animals.

Ochieng received his prize from Dickson Ritan, the Deputy Director of Parks and Reserves, at a ceremony held in Nairobi on Friday, December 8.

He expressed his gratitude to the organizers and the judges and dedicated his award to the people and wildlife affected by the drought.

Other winners of the competition were Enos Teche, who came in second and won USD 2,000 (Sh 308,618), and Abu Mburu, who came in third and won USD 1,000 (Sh 154,309).

The People's Choice Award, which was determined by online voting, went to Vincent Chepkwony, who won USD 500 (Sh 77,154).

The Safal Eye in the Wild Photography Competition is an annual campaign that was launched in 2017 by The Safal Group, a leading manufacturer of steel roofing and building solutions in Africa.

The campaign has witnessed tremendous growth and engagement, capturing the attention of participants from across the continent.