Network Lead Role for Africa Investigative Journalism Network (AIJN) – Applications Open Until 13 March 2026

Applications are still open for an influential part-time leadership role supporting investigative journalism across Africa. The deadline to apply for the Network Lead – Africa Investigative Journalism Network (AIJN) role has been extended to 13 March 2026 at 5pm SAST (6pm EAT).

This opportunity is ideal for experienced investigative journalism professionals with strong cross-border networks who are passionate about strengthening collaboration, mentoring journalists, and supporting major continental journalism initiatives, including the 2026 African Investigative Journalism Conference.

The role is jointly commissioned by the Wits Centre for Journalism, Fojo Media Institute, and the Aga Khan University Graduate School of Media and Communications, and will be based in Nairobi, Kenya.

About the Africa Investigative Journalism Network (AIJN)

The Africa Investigative Journalism Network (AIJN) has grown out of the African Investigative Journalism Conference, a long-standing and highly respected gathering of investigative journalists and editors from across the continent.

AIJN provides a structured platform for continuous collaboration beyond the annual conference, enabling cross-border investigations, professional exchange, mentoring, and capacity development. Through this network, journalists, editors, educators, and media support organisations work together to strengthen investigative reporting in Africa.

Role Overview

The Network Lead will represent the commissioning organisations in Nairobi and play a central role in coordinating and expanding AIJN activities throughout 2026–2027. A key focus of the role will be supporting the planning and delivery of the 2026 African Investigative Journalism Conference, which will be hosted at Aga Khan University in November 2026.

Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Duty Station: Aga Khan University
Contract: 50% (part-time)
Period: March 2026 – December 2027

Key Responsibilities

Network leadership and coordination

• Act as the Network Lead and main AIJN contact point in Nairobi

• Strengthen and expand AIJN across regions, institutions, and newsrooms

• Facilitate collaboration among investigative journalists, editors, educators, and media organisations

• Promote and support cross-border investigative projects, including story grant coordination

African Investigative Journalism Conference 2026

• Work closely with teams from Johannesburg and Nairobi to support AIJN-related conference activities

• Facilitate AIJN sessions, meetings, and networking events during AIJC Nairobi 2026

• Support coordination between AIJN members, partners, and conference organisers

• Contribute to network-focused conference content

Capacity development and mentoring

• Facilitate mentoring and peer-learning for investigative editors

• Organise workshops, roundtables, and online seminars

• Support collaboration between journalists, editors, and journalism educators

Journalism education engagement

• Strengthen links with universities and journalism schools

• Support investigative journalism education initiatives

• Promote long-term collaboration between academia and newsrooms

Representation and communication

• Represent AIJN and partner organisations in regional and international forums

• Contribute to AIJN’s strategic development and visibility

• Support planning, coordination, and reporting with partner organisations

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Deep knowledge of investigative journalism in Africa and its operating environments

• Strong professional credibility and networks within investigative journalism

• Experience coordinating networks, partnerships, or regional initiatives

• Experience mentoring or facilitating work with journalists and editors

• Strong communication and representation skills

Preferred experience includes:

• Engagement with journalism education and higher education institutions

• Experience working in high-risk or restrictive environments

• Knowledge of safety, security, and risk assessment in investigative journalism

• Understanding of gender perspectives in journalism

Language and Location Requirements

• Fluency in English is required

• Working knowledge of French is strongly preferred

• Must be based in Nairobi with the ability to travel regionally

How to Apply

Submit the following by 13 March 2026 at 5pm SAST:

• A letter of application demonstrating suitability for the role

• A recent CV

• Contactable references

Deadline: 13 March 2026 at 5pm SAST:

Application email: deangsmc@aku.edu

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Enquiries only:
Dr Dinesh Balliah – dinesh.balliah@wits.ac.za
Sofia Hultquist – sofia.hultqvist@lnu.se