M28 Investigates is an independent nonprofit organization, working at the intersection of investigative journalism, open - source intelligence and policy relevant research. With a primary focus on Sub-Saharan Africa and African Great lakes region, and with tools and methodologies accessible to practitioners worldwide, M28 Investigates advances accountability, transparency, human rights and press freedom.
To advance accountability, transparency, human rights, press freedom, and the rule of law through investigative journalism, open-source intelligence, policy-relevant research, and the training and equipping of those who pursue these goals - with a primary focus on Sub-Saharan Africa and the African Great Lakes region, and with tools, methodologies, and resources that serve practitioners worldwide.
M28 Investigates envisions a Sub-Saharan Africa - and a world - where power is held accountable, information serves the public interest, journalists and researchers work freely and safely, and the tools of open-source intelligence and investigation are accessible to those who defend human rights, press freedom, and the rule of law.
In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, we are redefining research through the integration of cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence. By leveraging innovative tools such as intelligent chatbots and collaborative portals, we are equipping researchers with the resources and support needed to produce impactful, data-driven research that uphold the highest standards of integrity and transparency.Our AI-powered chatbot is a revolutionary assistant designed to streamline the work of investigative researchers. It facilitates research by swiftly gathering credible information, providing real-time updates, and assisting in data analysis. The chatbot also acts as a virtual guide, simplifying complex processes like fact-checking, resource management, and team collaboration, enabling researchers to focus on impactful research..
Explore M28 Nexus →M28 Investigates produces original, rigorous investigative journalism and open-source intelligence analysis focused on accountability and human rights across Sub-Saharan Africa and the African Great Lakes region. Our work spans long-form investigations, data journalism, visual investigations, and cross-border collaborative reporting, published across our digital platforms and in partnership with leading international media outlets. We also develop and maintain OSINT tools, databases, and analytical frameworks used by journalists, researchers, legal professionals, and civil society organisations worldwide. Beyond journalism, we produce books, policy briefs, and multimedia content - and participate in major investigative consortia to ensure our findings reach the audiences that matter most.
Our research programme generates independent, evidence-based analysis on authoritarian governance, state repression, disinformation, conflict, and international accountability - with a particular focus on the Sub-Saharan Africa and African Great Lakes region. We translate this research into policy recommendations and briefings for governments, intergovernmental bodies, diplomatic forums, and civil society, ensuring that investigative findings inform real-world decision-making. We engage directly with international accountability mechanisms, including human rights treaty bodies and regional judicial institutions, and support litigation and legal research where our evidence can advance justice. Through the M28 Resource Lab, we also make our methodologies, case studies, and guides freely accessible to practitioners and the public.
M28 Investigates is committed to strengthening the next generation of investigators, journalists, and human rights defenders, particularly those working in exile, under threat, or in repressive environments across Sub-Saharan Africa. We design and deliver training programmes, workshops, and online learning resources in investigative methodology, OSINT, and digital security, tailored to journalists, researchers, legal professionals, civil society organisations, and government and law enforcement agencies. Through mentorship, institutional partnerships, and shared infrastructure, we support the growth of accountability organisations across the region. Our M28 Learning Lab makes curricula, toolkits, and training guides available to individuals and institutions seeking to build lasting investigative capacity.
We work and have worked with reputable organizations to deliver high standard investigative stories and resources.