African Voices at the World Conference of Science Journalists 2025 – Pretoria, South Africa

The 2025 World Conference of Science Journalists (WCSJ), held in Pretoria from 1-5 December, marked a milestone moment for African science journalism. Hosted on the African continent for the first time, the conference brought together science reporters, media practitioners, researchers, and communication specialists from across the world under the theme “Science Journalism and Social Justice: Building Understanding and Resilience.”

KAS Media Africa was proud to support the participation of journalists from South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and Germany, ensuring stronger representation from regions where science journalism continues to play a crucial role in public understanding - from health and environment to technology and climate change.

Over five days, participants engaged in a rich programme of panel discussions, keynote sessions, workshops, and practical training. Key themes included strengthening ethical reporting, navigating AI and emerging technologies, climate and health communication, and the role of journalism in advancing social equity and resilience.

For the African participants, the conference was also a platform to exchange experiences on reporting in contexts shaped by under-resourced newsrooms, misinformation challenges, and rapidly shifting scientific landscapes. Their contributions highlighted the vital role African journalists play in bridging the gap between science, policy, and the public.

In addition to capacity-building and knowledge-sharing, the conference created space for new networks and collaborations to take root - connections that will continue long after the final sessions. As one participant noted, meeting peers from across continents offered “a renewed sense of purpose and solidarity in telling stories that matter.”

KAS Media Africa remains committed to strengthening journalism on the continent and supporting initiatives that promote informed, inclusive, and resilient societies. The success of WCSJ 2025 in Pretoria stands as a powerful reminder of the global importance of African perspectives in science and public communication.