Soul Buddyz, the popular, acclaimed South African children's drama series this week scooped a major international award. A compelling episode in this weekly drama series has taken this year's Commonwealth Broadcasting Association (CBA) prize for Outstanding Local Children's Programme. The awards ceremony is part of the 25th CBA General Conference held in Fiji this week.
The award is sponsored by UNICEF.

The winning episode tells the story of Thulane, a young teenager who dreams of becoming a photographer when he leaves school. On the third anniversary of his mother's death he is kicked out of the house by his violent father. With nowhere else to go he seeks refuge with some drug-taking friends who persuade him, against his better judgment, to steal. The episode deals with decision making around the use of substances from the perspective of children.

The judges, Sarah McNeill, Director World Radio Forum, Wendy Zych of UNICEF and Seamogano Mosanako, from Botswana TV, were unanimous in their praise for the programme. The programme is a co-production between Soul City IHDC and SABC Education. They particularly admired the high quality of the production, the brave use of location shooting, the dramatic depiction of the hero's dilemma, and the simple, natural dialogue.

Soul Buddyz 2, which is a complete package of radio, television drama and print materials for 8 to 12 year olds focuses on children's rights, HIV/AIDS, racism & xenophobia, the environment and substance misuse. Soul Buddyz gives voice to young children facing real issues in today's world.

This groundbreaking South African production has won critical acclaim. Last year, it was awarded 'Best Children's Drama in Africa' and 'Best Edutainment in Africa' at the Children's Broadcasting Foundation for Africa (CBFA) - Sithengi 2003 Children's Festival.