John-Allan Namu Trains Uasin Gishu and Baringo Journalists on AI in Journalism
“Journalistic ethics and due diligence remain the strengths of a professional storyteller,” John Allan Namu
John-Allan Namu is an award-winning investigative journalist and the CEO of Africa Uncensored, a leading investigative journalism production house based in Nairobi.
By George Misati
Renowned investigative journalist and co-founder of Africa Uncensored, John-Allan Namu, has urged journalists to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a vital tool in modern journalism. Speaking during a training session for journalists from Uasin Gishu and Baringo counties, Namu emphasized the need for media professionals to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The training, organized in partnership with Transparency International (TI) Kenya, aimed to equip journalists with the skills necessary to leverage AI for research, data analysis, and storytelling—enhancing their ability to uncover complex issues.
“My encouragement for you all is to harness AI tools and learn how to use them,” Namu advised. “The beauty of data tools is that you can learn them independently, without necessarily needing an instructor.”
While acknowledging AI’s potential to revolutionize journalism, Namu cautioned against complacency, stressing that ethical reporting and accuracy remain the journalist’s responsibility.
“AI is a ball that is already rolling, and the greatest disservice you can do to your growth in this noble profession is to remain passive amid this technological migration,” he said. “Technology will continue evolving regardless of resistance.”
Ethics and Due Diligence in Investigative Journalism
In his session on investigative journalism, Namu underscored that while AI tools can streamline the production of award-winning investigative pieces, they should complement—not replace—the fundamental principles of journalism.
“Journalistic ethics and due diligence remain the strengths of a professional storyteller,” he noted.
Lillian Gathua from Transparency International Kenya echoed this sentiment, highlighting the role of digital technologies in promoting accountability and good governance.
“Transparency International has developed platforms such as Uwajibikaji Pamoja and the Action for Transparency App, which contribute greatly to research,” Gathua said. “With emerging technologies, including AI, it is crucial for journalists to integrate these tools into their work.”
AI’s Role in Strengthening Investigative Journalism
Journalists from Uasin Gishu and Baringo counties expressed optimism about incorporating AI into their workflows to enhance investigative reporting and storytelling.
“The workshop underscored the need to uphold ethical standards while utilizing AI, ensuring that technology complements our commitment to truth and accuracy,” said Naomi Cheruiyot, a journalist with Stewards Media.
Namu’s dedication to advancing journalism has been widely recognized. In November 2024, he received the prestigious International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) Award for his groundbreaking investigative work exposing corruption, human rights abuses, and governance failures.
The training is part of a broader initiative to prepare journalists across Kenya for the digital transformation, ensuring they remain effective watchdogs of society in an era of rapid technological advancements.
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