The LONACI Foundation has announced the winners of the 8th edition of its Social Challenge 2025, with journalist Fatou Sylla of Fraternité Matin winning the first prize and receiving 3 million FCFA. Sylla was recognised for her impactful report titled “Impact of the butane gas explosion in households: the difficult reconstruction of the rescued.” Her work was praised for its depth, sensitivity, and strong social relevance.
The award ceremony took place on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at LONACI Studios in Marcory-Biétry. The prize was presented by Mr. Dramane Coulibaly, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the LONACI Foundation, who also serves as Director General of LONACI – Loterie Nationale de Côte d’Ivoire.
In addition to the trophy, the winner received a cash prize of 3 million FCFA. Second place was awarded to Mr. Diomandé Mohamed Khalil of RTI for his report titled “Health: When Stroke Sweeps Lives,” earning a prize of 2 million FCFA. Third place went to Ms. Emeline Amangoua of Fraternité Matin for her article “Buruli Ulcer: the difficult life of children suffering from this disease,” who received 1 million FCFA.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Dramane Coulibaly commended participants for the quality of their work and their contribution to highlighting social realities in Côte d’Ivoire. “Through your productions, you have been able to take a fair, sensitive and committed look at the social realities of our country. You informed, alerted and helped raise awareness,” he said.
He also highlighted the increased value of the awards, describing it as an unprecedented level of recognition for journalistic merit. The President of the Jury, Mr. Boubacar Dosso, noted that 31 submissions were received between June 3 and October 3, 2025. He commended the overall quality of entries, which led to extensive deliberations.
In total, 25 candidates, including eight women, participated in this edition of the competition. The ceremony also marked the official launch of the 9th edition of the LONACI Foundation Social Challenge 2026.
