"It is both brave and welcome that he is ready to be open about PTSD."
The BBC's Africa Editor Fergal Keane is stepping down from his role with the broadcaster due to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Keane, who grew up in Cork and is a nephew of playwright John B. Keane, has worked for the BBC for over 30 years.
He has reported from conflict zones all over the world, including the Rwandan genocide, but will move away from his role in order to aid his recovery.
BBC's head of newsgathering Jonathan Munro said in a statement circulated to colleagues that Keane's decision to step back was personal, following several years of dealing with the effects of PTSD as a result of several decades working in conflict zones.
He praised Keane's “insight, experience and thoughtfulness” and said discussions with Keane were ongoing over a new role “that will enable him to continue to provide original and compelling journalism”.
“He has been supported throughout this time by friends and colleagues in news, as well as receiving professional medical advice," Munro said.
"However, he now feels he needs to change his role in order to further assist his recovery. It is both brave and welcome that he is ready to be open about PTSD.”
