CITE Investigative Journalism Grants

CITE invites journalists to submit investigative story proposals on issues affecting communities in Plumtree, Binga, Matobo, Masvingo and Hwange, either through their own reporting in these areas or in collaboration with locally based journalists.

The initiative supports strong local journalism that goes beyond reporting events to uncover new information, expose wrongdoing, hold institutions and public officials accountable, and help communities better understand how decisions and public resources affect their lives.

What we are looking for

We are looking for original, well-researched and evidence-based investigative story ideas that address issues of significant public interest.

We are particularly interested in investigations examining:

• Corruption and abuse of public resources;
• Failures in public service delivery;
• Accountability in local authorities and government departments;
• Missing, misused or unaccounted-for public funds;
• Irregularities in procurement and tender processes;
• Conflicts of interest and abuse of office;
• Weaknesses in public financial management; and
• Other governance and accountability issues involving the management or use of public resources.

We welcome investigations rooted in local communities that can reveal information that is not already widely known or available in the public domain.

What makes a strong pitch?

A strong proposal should clearly identify the issue to be investigated, explain why it matters to the affected community and demonstrate what new information the investigation could potentially uncover.

Before submitting your pitch, ask yourself:

1. Is this an underreported issue of genuine local public interest?
2. Could the investigation uncover new information, wrongdoing, negligence or failures in accountability?
3. Could the findings contribute to meaningful public debate, accountability or change in the community?
4. Do you have the access, local knowledge, sources or partnerships needed to investigate the story effectively?

Investigative Story Grants

Successful proposals will be eligible for a grant of up to US$800, depending on the quality, strength and scope of the proposed investigation.

The grant is intended to support the reporting and production of the investigation.

Publication and distribution

CITE will publish successful investigations on its website and social media platforms and distribute them through WhatsApp.

CITE will also make the stories available to local media outlets for wider publication. It will support further distribution and public engagement through its digital platforms, including X Spaces where appropriate.

How to submit your pitch

Send your proposal to:

zenzele@cite.org.zw
lesley@cite.org.zw

Your submission should include:

1. Story idea
Briefly explain the issue you want to investigate, who or what is involved, why the story matters to the community, and what you expect the investigation could uncover.

2. Work samples
Provide links or copies of previously published journalism, preferably investigative or public-interest reporting.

3. Editor’s support
Include a letter or email from your editor confirming that your media organisation supports the proposed investigation.

CITE is looking for investigations that begin with local questions but have the potential to produce meaningful evidence, strengthen accountability and give communities the information they need to demand answers