Fact-checking journalist - fixed term, Nairobi

Starting date: As soon as possible

Deadline for applications: 2 February 2026

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Africa region

 

THE JOB

 

AFP is seeking an experienced English-language journalist with strong digital investigation skills to join its Nairobi bureau on a fixed-term contract as part of the global fact-checking team.

 

As AFP’s regional office for East Africa, Nairobi is responsible for covering Kenya, Ethiopia, Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan, Somalia, Tanzania, Uganda, Djibouti, Eritrea, Mauritius and the Seychelles. 

 

The successful candidate will expertly report on online disinformation in Kenya and the wider region, and support journalists in other bureaus in Africa and beyond to verify digital content.

 

We are looking for an accomplished journalist who can swiftly track and verify disinformation on major social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok, discussion boards and encrypted chat apps. Expertise in digital verification techniques and tools is a must, as is the ability to identify and debunk AI-generated media.

 

The demanding role entails working to tight deadlines in a fast-paced multimedia newsroom consisting of text, photo and video journalists.

 

By joining one of the world’s top news wires, you must be able to turn complex subject matters into accurate, impartial and engaging news copy that appeals to clients in the region and across the globe. Beyond debunking claims, you are expected to pitch strong analysis pieces that provide a bigger picture of key disinformation trends.

 

You will demonstrate a deep knowledge of geopolitical and economic shifts in Kenya and East Africa. Experience of living in other parts of the continent will be an advantage.

 

This is an exciting opportunity to join AFP’s extensive fact-checking network, which leads the global fight against online disinformation.

 

SKILLS REQUIRED

 

  • You will have solid news judgment, a flair for writing, excellent interpersonal skills, and a proven track record of working under pressure and in challenging environments.

  • You must be available to occasionally work evenings and weekends when necessary.

  • Native-level English is essential, while knowledge of local languages and/or French/Arabic/Spanish will be an advantage.

 

RELIABILITY

 

You must ensure the reliability of our news coverage and respect the agency's editorial policy. You should be familiar with potential issues in handling user-generated content (UGC) and AFP’s guidelines concerning its use, especially regarding finding and verifying amateur videos in breaking news situations.

 

These duties may be modified due to AFP’s need to adapt to economic, commercial, or technical realities. The employee hereby undertakes to undergo any training requested by AFP, to update her professional skills and to accept any resultant change in her duties.

 

SOCIAL MEDIA

 

Use of social media (Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok…) and networking apps is essential, in accordance with the guidelines for using social networks as an AFP journalist.

 

WORKING HOURS

 

In an ever-changing media environment, the nature of the job could evolve in line with coverage demands and the requirements of an increasingly diverse client base.

 

APPLICATIONS

 

Please send a CV and cover letter to recruit.fact-check.africa@afp.com

 

AFP is committed to equal opportunities and greater diversity within its teams. We therefore encourage all applications in order to preserve the wealth of profiles, cultures and languages that constitute the strength of our network.