Fergal Keane is a prominent BBC correspondent known for his extensive reporting from conflict zones. He has served as the BBC’s correspondent in Southern Africa, Asia, and Northern Ireland and has reported on global conflicts.
Fergal began his career in 1979 with the Limerick Leader and later joined The Irish Times. He transitioned to broadcasting with RTE from 1984 to 1987, covering Belfast. In 1989, he joined the BBC as the Northern Ireland correspondent and became the Southern Africa correspondent in 1990, where he reported on the end of apartheid and the Rwandan genocide. In 1995, he took on the role of Asia correspondent, covering significant events such as the handover of Hong Kong to China and the Tokyo gas attacks. He later returned to London, reporting on major international stories, and is currently the Africa Editor for BBC News.
Fergal has produced notable documentaries, including a three-part series titled "Forgotten Britain" and "The Story of Ireland." In 2018, he provided commentary for the Westminster Abbey service commemorating the Armistice centenary. In 2022, he presented "Fergal Keane: Living with PTSD," exploring the effects of PTSD on himself and others.
He has authored several books, including "The Bondage of Fear," which examines apartheid South Africa, and "Season of Blood," a personal account of the Rwandan genocide. His memoir, "All of These People," reflects on his experiences as a war reporter. Other notable works include "Road of Bones" and "Wounds," which won multiple awards.
Fergal was appointed an OBE in 1997 for his contributions to journalism and has received honorary degrees from several universities. He has won numerous awards, including the Amnesty International Press Awards and a BAFTA for his documentary "Valentina’s Story." His work has earned him recognition for journalistic integrity and excellence in reporting.