
In this episode of the JHR podcast, Lisa LaFlamme speaks with award-winning investigative journalist Maura Ajak in Juba, South Sudan. Maura shares the story behind her powerful BBC documentary Poisoned Floods, which exposes the devastating impact of oil pollution in Unity State’s Bento displacement camp where contaminated soil and water have led to severe health crises, including birth defects.
At great personal risk, Maura brought global attention to a story many would rather ignore. She reflects on what it took to report from the front lines, the emotional toll of the work and the family roots that shaped her career. This conversation is a masterclass in courage, resilience and journalism’s critical role in defending human rights.