The Wits Centre for Journalism, Fojo Media Institute, and the AKU Graduate School of Media and Communications seek a Network Lead – Africa Investigative Journalism Network (AIJN).
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Duty station: Aga Khan University
Contract: 50% (part-time)
Period: March 2026 – December 2027
Commissioning organisations: Fojo Media Institute (Linnaeus University, Sweden) Wits Centre for Journalism (University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa) Graduate School of Media and Communications (Aga Khan University, Kenya)
Deadline to apply: 13 March 2026 at 5pm (SAST).
Background
The Wits Centre for Journalism (WCJ), Fojo Media Institute and Aga Khan University Graduate School of Media and Communications (AKU-GSMC) are jointly supporting the development of the Africa Investigative Journalism Network (AIJN), which has grown out of the African Investigative Journalism Conference (AIJC). Building on AIJC’s long-standing role as a key meeting place for investigative journalists and editors across Africa, AIJN provides a more structured platform for ongoing collaboration, cross-border investigations, and professional exchange and development.
To support this work, the WCJ, Fojo and AKU-GSMC are seeking an experienced Network Lead to represent the organisations in Nairobi and to coordinate AIJN-related activities during 2026–2027. This includes the development of the 2026 African Investigative Journalism Conference to be held at Aga Khan University (AKU) in November 2026.
Role purpose
The Network Lead will serve as the WCJ’s, Fojo Media Institute’s, and AKU-GSMC’s representative in Nairobi and play a central role in facilitating and strengthening the Africa Investigative Journalism Network. The role primarily focuses on network-building, coordination, mentoring of editors and reporters, and content-related collaboration, but includes event management of the 2026 and 2027 AIJC. This will involve supporting and facilitating the AIJN network components of the conference, working closely with the AIJC organising team led by Wits and Fojo and the local organising committee, led by AKU-GSMC.
Key responsibilities
Network leadership and coordination
- Act as the Network Lead for the Africa Investigative Journalism Network (AIJN) and as a key point of contact in Nairobi
- Strengthen and expand AIJN across regions, newsrooms, and institutions
- Facilitate collaboration between investigative journalists, editors, journalism educators, and media support organisations
- Promote and support cross-border investigative journalism initiatives and partnerships, including handling story grants.
AIJC Nairobi 2026 – AIJN network components
- Work with the Wits Centre for Journalism team in Johannesburg and represent Fojo Media Institute and the Wits Centre for Journalism in Nairobi in relation to the AIJC
- Facilitate AIJN-related sessions, meetings, and networking activities connected to AIJC Nairobi 2026
- Support coordination between AIJN members, partners, and the AIJC organising team
- Contribute to the development of network-focused content linked to the conference
Capacity development and mentoring
- Facilitate mentoring and peer-learning opportunities for investigative editors
- Organise workshops, roundtables, and online seminars within the AIJN framework
- Support collaboration between journalists, editors, and journalism educators
Journalism education and higher education engagement
- Work with universities and journalism schools to strengthen investigative journalism education
- Support links between newsrooms and higher education institutions, including guest lectures and joint activities
- Contribute to long-term collaboration between investigative journalism practice and education
Representation and communication
- Represent AIJN, Fojo Media Institute, and the Wits Centre for Journalism in relevant regional and international forums
- Contribute to the visibility, positioning, and strategic development of AIJN
- Work closely with Fojo and Wits on planning, coordination, and reporting
Required qualifications and experience
- Deep knowledge of investigative journalism in Africa, including its ecosystems and challenges
- Strong professional credibility and networks within investigative journalism and media development
- Experience coordinating networks, partnerships, or regional collaborations
- Experience working with journalists and editors, including mentoring or facilitation roles
- Strong communication skills and experience in representational roles
Preferred qualifications and experience
- Experience engaging with higher education institutions and journalism education systems
- Experience working with investigative journalism in challenging contexts, including a strong understanding of gender perspectives and the realities faced by journalists operating in high-risk or restrictive environments
- Knowledge of and experience in risk assessment, safety, and security practices related to investigative journalism
Language and location requirements
- Fluency in English required
- Working knowledge of French strongly preferred
- Based in Nairobi, with the ability to work from Aga Khan University and travel regionally as required.
Reporting and collaboration
The Network Lead will work in close collaboration with Fojo Media Institute, the Wits Centre for Journalism and AKU-GSMC and in dialogue with AIJN members and partners across Africa. The Network Lead will report to the directors/programme leads of all three commissioning organisations. The role requires independence, good judgement, a strong profile and strong collaborative skills.
For enquiries only: Email Dr Dinesh Balliah ([email protected]) OR Sofia Hultquist ([email protected]).
To apply: Submit a letter of application demonstrating your suitability for this role with a recent CV and contactable references to [email protected] by no later than 13 March 2026, 5pm (SAST).