Mervyn Naidoo, the Daily News' Content Manager, has been honoured with the 2026 Standard Bank Sikuvile Journalism Award in the 'Hard News' category.The prestigious event, co-hosted by SANEF and Standard Bank in Johannesburg, celebrated journalistic excellence amid a competitive media landscape.Naidoo's winning piece, detailing a Durban pharmacist's distressing river incident, showcased his commitment to impactful storytelling.Reflecting on his victory, he thanked God, his family, and the editorial team for their support.The awards highlighted South Africa's vibrant journalism scene, with over 400 entries judged rigorously.Other notable winners included Sandile Ndlovu for skate culture coverage and Cleopatra Jones in Community Service Reporting.

Daily News Editor Ayanda Mdluli praised Naidoo's dedication to KwaZulu-Natal stories, emphasizing the publication's role in holding power accountable.The event underscored journalism's vital role in community engagement and public service.