The importance of incorporating emotion and transparency into investigative reporting was an anchor point made by Jeff Kelly Lowenstein, the Executive Director of the Center for Collaborative Investigative Journalism (CCIJ), during the recently concluded Amplify In-depth Media (AIM) Conference, which was organised by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) and held virtually on Sunday, 8 and Monday, 9 December 2024. He highlighted the fact that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been an integral part of human lives for decades, citing examples such as predictive text messaging and the functionality of traffic lights.

He explained that the recent advancements in machine learning, a subset of AI, bring significant challenges and numerous opportunities for journalism. According to Lowenstein, “the rise of machine learning compels journalists to rethink how they engage with their audiences”. He noted that this technological shift underscores the need for reporters to emphasise the structure and delivery of their reports, ensuring that their work resonates more deeply and effectively with the public. Jeff Kelly Lowenstein underscored AI’s transformative role in modern journalism, reflecting on his experiences working with journalists across various continents in investigative and training capacities.

Lowenstein also clarified the critical importance of credibility in journalism. As a case study, he pointed to the recent standoff between the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) and Mediapart. He noted that OCCRP’s lack of transparency regarding the extent of veto power held by the United States Government over its board appointments exposed the organisation to accusations that undermined trust in their work. This controversy, he explained, illustrates how a lack of openness can cast doubt on the credibility of even the most well-regarded investigative bodies.

He stressed that truth is often the first casualty in conflict, and those who strive to expose the truth frequently become collateral damage. He pointed out that investigative reporting requires more than just financial investment – it demands robust mechanisms to protect journalists from physical harm, legal harassment, and reputational attacks. He noted that such protection is not merely an ethical obligation but a practical necessity for sustaining the integrity and continuity of investigative journalism while emphasising the importance of fostering a global network of support for journalists engaged in high-stakes reporting, similar to what the CCIJ does.

Responding to a conference participant’s question on how governments can be mandated to fund journalism without compromising its independence, Lowenstein expressed categorical support for the idea of establishing endowments. He stated that such mechanisms could create a stable financial base for journalism while safeguarding its integrity. However, he cautioned that these arrangements must be designed to prevent undue influence or interference from government authorities.

Concluding the discussion, Lowenstein shared his perspective, drawn from years of experience. He asserted that Nigeria is carving a pioneering path for Sub-Saharan Africa by seamlessly integrating machine learning and advanced technology into journalistic endeavours. In his view, this trajectory positions the nation as a beacon of innovation and ignites a transformative spark for the region’s media landscape. Watch the full panel session on day one of the AIM Conference here.