Maurice Lede: Nieuwe NOS-correspondent Afrika | NOS
Maurice Lede, a familiar face to Dutch television viewers, is embarking on a new chapter in his career as the next Africa correspondent for NOS News. Beginning May 1st, the 39-year-old presenter and program maker will join current correspondent Elles van Gelder in reporting from the African continent, with Dakar, Senegal, serving as his base.
A Transition in Coverage
Lede’s appointment follows the departure of Saskia Houttuin, who has transitioned to the role of correspondent in France. This shift marks a continuation of NOS News’ commitment to international reporting and its coverage of Africa.
From Law to Television
Lede’s background is rooted in law, but he gained prominence in television starting in 2011 as the host of Het Klokhuis, a role he held until 2018. He became widely recognized for presenting the travel program 3 op Reis from 2016 to 2022. His earlier presenting credits include De Nationale Reistest, Trippers, and Serious Request.
Experience Beyond Travel
Lede’s reporting experience extends beyond leisure travel. For Trippers, he covered complex issues such as gang violence in El Salvador, the oppression of women in Guatemala, gun culture in the United States, and poaching in South Africa. He has also contributed stories from Africa and other regions to the travel magazine Columbus Travel in recent years.
A Long-Held Ambition
Lede expressed his enthusiasm for the position, stating that becoming the Africa correspondent has been a long-held ambition. He described it as an honour to report on and share stories from a continent that “touches, captivates, and inspires” him.
Esther Bootsma, head of the NOS foreign desk, highlighted Lede’s experience as a television presenter and program maker, noting his “extensive professional knowledge” and “immense enthusiasm” as key factors in the decision to appoint him.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is replacing Saskia Houttuin?
Maurice Lede is replacing Saskia Houttuin as the Africa correspondent. Houttuin has become the correspondent in France.
When will Maurice Lede begin his role?
Maurice Lede will begin his role as Africa correspondent on May 1st.
Where will Maurice Lede be based?
Maurice Lede’s base will be Dakar, the capital city of Senegal.
As Lede prepares for his new assignment, it remains to be seen what specific stories and regions he will focus on, and how his reporting will shape public understanding of the African continent. His prior experience with Trippers will inform his approach to covering complex social and political issues. His collaboration with Elles van Gelder could lead to a broader range of perspectives and in-depth coverage.