Goma natives Justin Kabumba and Moses Sawasawa brought their deeply personal expertise to bear when Rwandan-backed M23 rebels began their push toward the eastern Congo city of Goma.
Sensing a larger offensive, video journalist Kabumba and photographer Sawasawa, both longtime AP freelancers, left Goma and moved into the path of the advancing rebels. They exclusively documented the humanitarian chaos as people fled and the Congolese army attempted to hold back the rebels.
At great personal risk, the two provided striking visuals of panicked people carrying as much as they could while escaping, frequently with the sounds of artillery in the distance. Braving stampedes, gunfire, and an increasingly rapid rebel advance, the pair worked tirelessly to deliver stunning visuals and in-depth reporting that kept AP ahead.
Their dedication ensured AP, and its global customers, were there when the rebels entered the city for the first time in over a decade. The judges were impressed by the breadth of coverage Kabumba and Sawasawa provided, including thoughtful, character-driven journalism, while navigating this dangerous situation and its significant personal impact.
For their courage, resilience, and commitment to keeping AP and the world informed about this fast-moving crisis, Kabumba and Sawasawa earn this week’s Best of AP — First Winner.