Investigative journalism and anti-corruption: Public perception on Anas’s approach in Ghana

Abstract

What is the public perception of investigative journalism in Africa? This article seeks to examine the public perception and challenges facing investigative journalism in Africa. It uses the case of an investigative journalist called Anas from Ghana whose works have sought to expose corruption in the country and the continent. The article adopts a mixed-method approach that relies on descriptive, quantitative research design (basic numeral) based on an online survey from June to July 2019 (n = 208 respondents) and an in-depth analysis of existing literature. The objective of this study is to interrogate the role of journalists in combating corruption, a vice that continues to pose a serious threat to justice and development in many societies. The authors find that investigative journalism is attractive to many citizens but faces serious challenges that undermine its effectiveness. The article concludes with a set of recommendations that can further strengthen the practice of investigative journalism.