Larry Madowo Wins NABJ Salute to Excellence Award for Groundbreaking Tanzania Investigation

Kenyan journalist and CNN International Correspondent Larry Madowo has won a 2026 Salute to Excellence Award from the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) for his investigative report on the killing of protesters during Tanzania’s disputed October 2025 general elections.

The investigation, “CNN Investigates Killing of Tanzanian Protesters by Police,” was recognised in the Television Network Investigative category. The award was presented Saturday evening at the NABJ Salute to Excellence Awards Gala in Atlanta, which closed the organisation’s 2026 annual convention .

Madowo’s investigation documented alleged police shootings of unarmed protesters during post-election unrest and featured claims of mass graves where victims were reportedly buried to conceal the scale of the killings. The report relied on forensic analysis of dozens of videos, satellite imagery review, and hundreds of eyewitness accounts submitted by Tanzanian citizens .

“Last night in Atlanta, our groundbreaking Tanzania investigation won a @NABJ Salute to Excellence Award. Thanks to all the brave Tanzanians who trusted us with their stories,” Madowo said.

The report required work and courage from ordinary citizens, with Madowo previously describing it as one of the most challenging assignments he has undertaken due to the heightened sensitivity of the events. Tanzanians submitted hundreds of videos, photos and eyewitness accounts that helped shape the investigation .

The NABJ Salute to Excellence Awards recognise journalism that best covers the Black experience or addresses issues affecting the worldwide Black community. The awards are open to all media organisations and individuals involved in print, broadcast and digital journalism.