Wikus de Wet is a South African photographer and editor currently serving as Deputy Africa Editorial Chief for Photo at Agence France-Presse (AFP). He began his photography career in 2012, covering stories across South Africa for local and international outlets including Die Burger, Rapport, Beeld, Mail & Guardian, and AFP. Known for his collaborative approach, Wikus also co-authored a book with South African musician and poet Jaco van der Merwe, Wat Binne Is (That Which Is Inside), exploring post-apartheid Afrikaner identity and heritage.
In 2019, Wikus joined AFP’s Johannesburg bureau as a photo editor and was promoted in 2023 to his current role. In this role, he oversees editorial planning and decision-making, manages photographers, and packages photo productions across the sub-Saharan Africa region for clients. He works closely with the AFP Africa Chief Photographer, Marco Longari, and has been instrumental in updating and developing more efficient workflows and editorial processes within the organisation.
Wikus has also been used to reinforce editing teams in major global events, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games (remotely), the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games, the 2022 Qatar FIFA World Cup (remotely), the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France (remotely), the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, and various other international AFP assignments. During these events, he worked with the global photography and editing team to deliver high-quality real-time photo coverage for clients. His work reflects a deep commitment to honest, empathetic storytelling and the development of visual journalism in Africa.
