The BBC’s veteran war reporter Fergal Keane is leaving his job because he is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
He is stepping down as the corporation’s Africa editor. Head of newsgathering Jonathan Munro said his colleague’s diagnosis stems from “several decades of work in conflict zones around the world”.
Jonathan said Fergal has suffered “for several years” and has received medical help but feels he should change role to “assist his recovery”.
He added: “It’s brave and welcome he is ready to be open about PTSD.”
Fergal, 59, who joined the BBC in 1989 as a Northern Ireland correspondent, has won many awards for his work including coverage of the Rwandan genocide. He was made an OBE in 1996.
He won an Amnesty television prize in 1994 for an investigation into the Rwandan genocide.
Fergal reported from South Africa and Asia for the corporation before being moved to his current role.
Fergal told staff the journalist has received support from "friends and colleagues" as well as medical professionals.
He added: "However, he now feels he needs to change his role in order to further assist his recovery.
"It's both brave and welcome that he is ready to be open about PTSD."
