Speaking at the Red Ribbon Award ceremony for excellence in journalism in Nairobi, Kenya Alonzo applauded the media for helping society to realise the HIV threat to their health and day-to-day life.

"In this regard, we have to acknowledge the invaluable role that journalists played in raising awareness among the general public," he said. He pointed out that reporting HIV/AIDS requires extraordinary ability because it is not a subject that pleases editors and journalists.

"Producing high quality write-ups on the subject is not only considered as not commercially viable, but also a taboo subject that touches on many taboos in traditional and non-traditional societies alike," said Alonzo. He pointed out that African reporters often carry out research, which in other countries would be done by a team of people.

"This is why today, we have to recognise excellence at its best for in spite of all these problems, taboos and hurdles on HIV/AIDS in a journalist's career, we witness and admire a show of courage and professional commitment to the African society. Tonight, we want to honour journalists who have contributed to awaken society to a life threatening menace," he said.

Alonzo pointed out that the award was motivated by the impact of sensationalist journalism, which has contributed to the spread of stigma on people living with HIV. The sentiment was shared by the jury chairman, Nasser Ega-Musa who pointed out that inaccurate information is detrimental in the fight against HIV/AIDS.