CAJ Welcomes Release Of South African Journalist Micah Reddy, Fixer In Djibouti

By Iyojo Ameh

The Congress of African Journalists has welcomed the release and safe return of South African investigative journalist Micah Reddy and his colleague and fixer, Kooki Mahmoud, after four days in detention in Djibouti.

Reddy, Africa Editor of the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, and Mahmoud were detained in Djibouti on September 20, according to the Congress of African Journalists.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, CAJ said it participated in advocacy efforts for the journalists’ release, describing their intervention as part of its mandate to defend journalists facing threats across Africa.

The organisation also expressed appreciation to the Committee to Protect Journalists, particularly its Regional Director for Africa, Angela Quintal, for acknowledging CAJ’s contribution to the collective advocacy that preceded the journalists’ release.

“When one journalist is detained in secret, it concerns all journalists on the continent,” the organisation said.

CAJ said the four-day incommunicado detention of Reddy and Mahmoud over alleged accreditation issues was unacceptable, arguing that the incident raised concerns about press freedom and due process in Djibouti.

The organisation called on the Djibouti authorities to ensure transparent accreditation procedures and respect the rights of journalists and other media workers operating in the country.

CAJ also expressed solidarity with Reddy, Mahmoud and their families, as well as the CPJ, TAEF, SANEF and other organisations involved in efforts to secure their release.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Intercontinental Connection of Journalists and other partners to respond swiftly whenever the safety of journalists is threatened.

The statement was signed by CAJ International President, Michael Adeboboye, and its Secretary-General, Dr Ashraf Aboul-Yazi.

The development comes amid renewed calls from press freedom organisations for stronger protections for journalists working across Africa, particularly those facing detention or restrictions while carrying out legitimate professional duties.