The University of Nairobi hosted the two-day BBC Future of Journalism Festival on July 9–10, 2026, bringing together leading journalists from BBC and Kenya, media executives, academics, innovators and journalism students to explore the future of news, storytelling and media innovation. The festival provided a unique platform for participants to engage with industry leaders on emerging trends shaping journalism, including solutions journalism, artificial intelligence, investigative reporting, podcasting and environmental communication.

The festival opened with a thought-provoking panel discussion on What Does the Future of Journalism Look Like? featuring BBC Africa Regional Director Juliet Njeri, University of Nairobi lecturer Dr. Fredrick Ogutu Oiye, BBC Focus on Africa host Waihiga Mwaura and Jon Bithrey, Editor of BBC People Fixing the World. Moderated by Myra Anubi, the session examined the evolving role of journalists in an increasingly digital and rapidly changing media landscape.

Participants also explored the growing significance of solutions journalism during a session led by Caroline Karobia of the Solutions Journalism Network and Aghan Daniel, Chief Executive Officer of Media for Environment, Science, Health and Agriculture (MESHA). The discussion emphasized the importance of reporting that not only highlights societal challenges but also examines credible responses that are creating positive impact.

The festival featured a speed networking session that connected aspiring journalists with experienced professionals from the BBC, Africa Uncensored, Nation Media Group, NTV and other leading media organizations. The interactive engagement enabled students and young journalists to receive career guidance, mentorship and practical insights into the profession.

Investigative journalism was another key focus of the festival, with distinguished journalists Kassim Mohamed of BBC Longform Africa Investigations, John-Allan Namu of Africa Uncensored and Ngina Kirori of NTV sharing experiences on the critical role investigative reporting plays in promoting transparency, accountability and public interest.

Hands-on workshops offered participants practical skills in crisis communication, solutions journalism and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in journalism. Facilitated by experts from BBC Media Action, the Solutions Journalism Network and AI Salon, the sessions equipped attendees with tools to strengthen storytelling, improve newsroom practices and navigate emerging technologies ethically.

The first day concluded with an engaging discussion on podcasting, where media personalities Ian Wafula, Adelle Onyango, Namulanta Kombo and BBC Senior News Editor Sam Bonham shared practical strategies for building successful podcasts and growing digital audiences.

On the second day, discussions focused on career opportunities in journalism, with senior editors and media professionals offering guidance on the skills, adaptability and innovation required to thrive in the industry. Another session highlighted the power of radio in inspiring environmental action, demonstrating how community media continues to play a vital role in advancing climate awareness and sustainable development.

The festival concluded with a live recording of the BBC People Fixing the World podcast, exploring innovative solutions for creating more liveable cities. The session featured experts from Zima Homes, Kiri EV, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and Ecopost, who showcased practical innovations in sustainable housing, green mobility, plastic recycling and urban planning.

By hosting the BBC Future of Journalism Festival, the University of Nairobi reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing the next generation of journalists and media professionals. The festival strengthened collaboration between academia and industry while providing students with invaluable exposure to global journalism trends, professional networks and practical skills essential for the future of media.