How to and what not to - two new books cover investigative reporting and media law

The third book in KAS's media law series focuses on the conditions of working journalists, the laws and court cases that affect media freedom, independence and sustainability in Tanzania, the mountain kingdom of Lesotho and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

A Watchdog's Guide to Investigative Reporting is an introduction to the nuts and bolts of investigative journalism sprinkled with anecdotes and advice from leading journalists. A dynamic media needs investigative reporters who delve beyond the obvious facts to uncover truths that some would rather hide.

"The book comes at a time of renewed interest into the role of the fourth estate and investigative reporting to hold the powerful to account," said Head of the KAS Media programme for sub-Saharan Africa, Gaby Neujahr.

"The vast majority of Africa's journalists possess no formal training in the discipline and there are few accessible resources on the subject. This book may offer old hacks some new tricks and help the next generation of reporters understand the ropes of this discipline," she commented.

Both books will be distributed free of charge to journalists' and editors' associations, media teaching departments and MISA offices for a limited period and will be available online in Adobe Acrobat format from 28 November 2005 at www.kasmedia.org/publications.htm