Kenyan journalist Ian Wafula has taken a new role with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in Nairobi.
Wafula announced that he has assumed the position of Africa Security Correspondent for the BBC, based in Nairobi.
Ian Wafula’s announcement
He shared the news on his social media platforms, accompanying his announcement with photos of himself wearing protective gear, including a bulletproof jacket and helmet.
On his Instagram account, Wafula confirmed that his new role will involve comprehensive coverage of the intricate security dynamics across the African continent.
He expressed his eagerness to delve into this challenging field and learn from the complexities it entails.
He extended his gratitude to his friends and family for their unwavering support and acknowledged the belief placed in him by his editors, including Juliet Njeri, Vera Kwakofi, and Newton Ndebu.
“I am now the Africa Security Correspondent for the BBC based in Nairobi. Looking forward to cover the continent and learn from its complex security nuances. Special thanks to my friends & family for being my constant cheerleaders. As well as my editors Juliet Njeri, Vera Kwakofi & Newton Ndebu for believing in me. Let’s go!” his post stated.
Previously, Wafula was part of the team working on Focus on Africa in London, where he played a pivotal role in transitioning the program to its current location in Nairobi.
Focus on Africa is BBC’s flagship news and current affairs program dedicated to covering the African continent, broadcast on the World Service.
In 2020, during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, he took on the role of Senior Presenter for The Breakdown, a special BBC Africa TV program designed to help audiences navigate the crisis.
The show was broadcast on 32 partner stations across 18 countries. In 2018, he presented and reported for Fact Finder, a program focused on media literacy and fact-checking, which led to his nomination for the Africa Check Fact Checker of the Year 2019 award.
Wafula’s journalistic career has also encompassed work with local TV stations in Kenya, including K24 and KTN.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication from Nairobi’s Daystar University and pursued a Master’s Degree in International Journalism at Cardiff University, where he was a Chevening Scholarship fellow.
