Zipporah Achieng, who was once covered with leso by Ruto’s mother, wins big at Media Women Awards

The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) on Thursday night hosted its inaugural Women Awards, spotlighting outstanding female voices shaping the country’s media landscape.

Among the standout winners was rising media professional Zipporah Achieng Owigo, who was recognised for her remarkable strides in the industry with the ‘Young Woman in Media Award.’

The awards ceremony brought together leading journalists and media practitioners, with organisers saying the initiative aims to celebrate excellence while amplifying the role of women in a largely male-dominated field.

Judges noted that Achieng emerged from a highly competitive pool, citing her dedication, resilience and growing influence behind the camera.

Speaking after receiving the award, an emotional Achieng described the recognition as both overwhelming and affirming.

“I was shaking when my name was called,” she said. “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 been shaped by both professional milestones and personal experiences. She recalled a widely noted encounter with President William Ruto’s mother, Mama Sarah Ruto, during an assignment in Uasin Gishu County. While covering an event, she was advised on her attire and offered a leso to cover herself.

Rather than taking offence, Achieng said she embraced the moment as a lesson in humility and cultural awareness.

“I was deeply touched by the president’s mother correcting me,” she said. “I respect my elders, and I believe learning is a continuous process.”

Based in Eldoret, Achieng has carved out a unique niche as the only female camera operator in Kenya’s North Rift region. She works alongside Citizen TV reporter John Wanyama, delivering visuals from some of the region’s most demanding news environments.

Her role, often considered physically demanding and traditionally dominated by men, requires handling heavy equipment and responding swiftly to breaking news.

Colleagues describe her as focused and dependable, maintaining composure even under pressure.

For Achieng, the craft goes beyond technical skill. “Camera work is my passion,” she said. “It’s not just about capturing images; it’s about telling stories that matter.”

Outside the newsroom, she is also an active content creator and a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, where she participates in choir activities; balancing faith, creativity and a growing media career.