The application deadline is September 15, 2026.
The BBC is inviting applications from experienced journalists for the position of “Africa Correspondent”, with the successful candidate expected to provide specialist reporting and analysis on major developments across the continent.
The role will involve producing accurate, impartial and engaging journalism for multiple BBC platforms, including its website, radio, television, podcasts and social media channels.
The correspondent will be expected to report on major national stories, develop original angles and provide audiences with deeper insight into important events. The position also requires the production of both short- and long-form digital video content, including field reports and explainers.
According to the job description, the successful applicant will regularly contribute to BBC Online, radio and television while also producing content for digital and social platforms.
The journalist will be required to respond quickly to breaking news and may be deployed to major stories across South Africa and other parts of Africa. The role could also involve assignments to challenging or hostile environments in other parts of the world at short notice.
Key responsibilities
The Africa Correspondent will be expected to maintain high editorial standards while delivering fast, accurate and fair journalism.
The role also requires the ability to generate original story ideas, analyse political and social developments, and demonstrate a strong understanding of African culture, history and geopolitics.
Candidates should be comfortable working across different formats, including written reports, television, radio, social media, podcasts and digital video.
The BBC also expects the successful applicant to understand audience needs and develop content capable of engaging diverse and younger audiences.
Who can apply?
Applicants should have extensive recent journalism experience covering “South Africa”, particularly its culture, politics, history and geopolitical affairs.
Candidates must demonstrate strong writing and editorial judgment, as well as experience producing original journalism for public audiences.
They should also have proven digital and social media skills and be capable of reporting live on television and radio during major breaking-news events.
Experience packaging stories for television bulletins will also be an advantage.
Application requirements
Applicants are required to submit a CV, complete the relevant application questions and provide links to three examples of journalism work in English.
The examples should include:
- A breaking-news text or broadcast report
- An original journalism story in text, broadcast or digital video format
- A geopolitical analysis piece in text, digital or radio format
Interested candidates can apply through the BBC’s official careers platform.
