The Reporter Slam is an innovative live journalism format that brings reporters from behind their desks onto the stage. In short, journalists present their own investigations in engaging app. 10-minute performances, combining storytelling, humor, and multimedia elements.
Rather than focusing only on the final story, the format highlights the “story behind the story” – how journalists work, the challenges they face, and the personal experiences behind their reporting. The audience plays an active role, voting for their favorite performance at the end of the event.
Reporter Slam Africa
Since 2024, KAS Media Africa has organized an annual Reporter Slam Africa, bringing together journalists from across the continent. Each year, journalists present powerful and personal stories on key issues affecting African societies, ranging from governance and social justice to infrastructure and public service delivery.
2026 – Kampala, Uganda
Winner: Koena Mashale (South Africa)
Take a closer look at the 2026 event – including the full recording here: Reporter Slam Africa 2026
2025 – Lagos, Nigeria
Winner: Yaddah Wanjiku Nduati (Uganda)
Take a closer look at the 2025 event – including the full recording here: Reporter Slam Africa 2025
2024 – Cape Town, South Africa
Winner: Melony Ishola (Nigeria)
Take a closer look at the 2024 event – including the full recording here: Reporter Slam Africa 2024
Reporter Slam South Africa
In addition to the continental event, KAS Media Africa launched the national Reporter Slam South Africa in 2025 as part of the Media Freedom Festival. The South African edition provides a platform for local journalists to showcase their work and qualify for the continental competition.
2025 – Johannesburg, South Africa
Winner: Koena Mashale (The Sowetan)
Take a closer look at the 2025 event – including the full recording here: Reporter Slam South Africa 2026
The Reporter Slam transforms journalism into a live, accessible experience. By combining reporting with performance, it creates a space where audiences can better understand the work of journalists and engage with important societal issues in a direct and memorable way.
The format reflects key objectives of the KAS Media Programme Sub‑Saharan Africa, particularly its focus on strengthening informed dialogue on journalism, promoting exchange among media professionals, and supporting innovative, audience‑oriented storytelling across the continent.
