Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards 2025 open for entry

The highly anticipated 2025 Vodacom Journalist of the Year (VJOY) Awards has kicked off and the entry date for this year’s awards has been set for 5 September 2025.

Journalists can submit their work in any of the 12 categories, including Live Reporting and Breaking News, Investigative, Opinion, Lifestyle, Features, Photography, Sport, Financial & Economics, Politics, Sustainability, Innovation in Journalism, and the Young Journalist of the Year Award.

“In recent years, journalism has seen a significant shift towards digital platforms, with a growing reliance on social media and video content for news consumption. This transformation has brought both challenges and opportunities, including the rise of influencer-driven content and the integration of AI technologies in news production. In these fast-paced times, the importance of credible and ethical journalism cannot be overstated. The media play a crucial role in shaping democracy and driving economies, and it is imperative that we uphold the highest standards of integrity and responsibility. This is the very reason that Vodacom remains committed to celebrating excellence in journalism in the country, acknowledging some of South Africa’s most distinguished reporters and their impactful stories,” says Takalani Netshitenzhe, Director for External Affairs at Vodacom South Africa.

The panel of judges for this year’s awards will be chaired by Ryland Fisher, who will lead his colleagues in evaluating the entries to determine the top contenders. The 2025 Judging panel will comprise of the following esteemed media professionals:

· Obed Zilwa

· Manelisa Dubase

· Patricia McCraken

· Adv Robin Sewlal

· Arthur Goldstuck

· Dr Elna Rossouw

· Collin Nxumalo

· Jovial Ranto

· Prof Gilbert Motsaathebe

· Portia Kubue

From 1 to 5 September 2025, Fisher will conduct two virtual media roadshows each day to provide potential entrants with detailed information about the competition rules and entry procedures.

“The rise of social media, AI, and digital platforms has introduced new challenges, making it crucial for journalists to embrace these technologies responsibly. How journalists adapt to and use these tools will be critical in ensuring the delivery of high-quality and ethical journalism. As we look towards the future, there is no room for compromise in delivering sound journalistic storytelling.

The future of our democracy depends on the dedication of journalists to uncover the truth, initiate meaningful conversations, and drive positive change. I urge all journalists to submit their finest work to the Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards and join in celebrating excellence in our important profession,” said Fisher.

Journalists are invited to submit their best work produced between 25 July 2024 and 31 July 2025 at https://journalist.vodacom.co.za/.

Entries will be accepted from 5 until 19 September 2025, with no late submissions allowed.

Finalists chosen from the five regions will compete at the national finals that will be held in December:

· Region A: Gauteng

· Region B: Free State, Northern Cape, Northwest and Limpopo

· Region C: KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga

· Region D: Western Cape

· Region E: Eastern Cape

The Vodacom Young Journalist Award offers an educational boost to nurture upcoming newsroom talent.

Regional category winners receive R5 000, national category winners, R10 000, and the overall Vodacom Journalist of the Year winner, R100 000. In the case of joint winners, prize money is shared.

Google Digital News Transformation Fund Opens for Applications

The Digital News Transformation Fund (DNTF) has officially open its first application window on 25 August 2025, offering small, medium, and community-based independent news publishers an opportunity to secure funding for projects that drive digital transformation and long-term sustainability in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Independent publishers are a vital part of South Africa’s democratic infrastructure, providing local, community, and public-interest journalism often not covered by larger news outlets.

Yet many face increasing pressure to adapt and survive in a fast-changing media environment. Structural challenges, including declining print revenue, shifting audience habits, and the need to compete in a digital-first news environment, have intensified.

The R114-million Fund is a partnership between Google and the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) and administered by Tshikululu Social Investments. The fund is designed to help South African publishers strengthen digital capacity, diversify revenue streams, and future-proof their operations.

“Our focus is on public interest news publishers,” said Leanne Kunz, Head of Fund at the Digital News Transformation Fund.

“Different parts of the industry are at different points in their digital journey: broadcast shifted earlier, while many small and medium publishers are progressing from more constrained starting points. The Fund is designed to close that gap, giving local, community, and independent newsrooms the resources to invest in tools, skills, and business models that will help them compete and grow online.”

The first funding cycle will run from 25 August 2025, when the call for proposals opens, to 21 September 2025, when applications close.

From 22 September to 27 October, applications will be reviewed through an adjudication and due diligence process. The Fund’s oversight and advisory board will ratify selected grantees between 27 October and 9 November, with contracting and disbursements taking place from 10 November to 7 December 2025 (upon receipt of signed contracts). Funded publishers will begin training on 12 January 2026.

Who can apply

The DNTF is open to:

  • Early-stage news publishers in need of foundational digital tools (such as websites, content management systems, cameras, audio-visual equipment) and guidance to formalise operations.
  • Mid-stage news publishers with an established online presence who require strategic and technical support to grow audiences, launch new products, or diversify revenue.
  • Established publishers with fewer than 1 million monthly unique website users who are ready to experiment with sector-wide innovations or new business models that can be replicated.

Eligible applicants must (summary only):

  • Be members in good standing of the Press Council.
  • Operate a news publication serving a South African audience.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to editorial independence and public-interest journalism.
  • Have a clearly defined digital transformation project with measurable outcomes.
  • Meet the Fund’s governance and compliance requirements.

“As part of our ongoing collaboration with the South African news ecosystem, policymakers, and our partners at the AIP, we are excited to see the application process launch for the Digital News Transformation Fund,” said Marianne Erasmus, Google News Partner Lead for Sub-Saharan Africa.

“This R114-million fund is dedicated to fostering a sustainable future for local, community, and independent news publishers. The three-year initiative is designed to support newsrooms in launching vital digital transformation projects, and our financial commitment is paired with ongoing support from the Google News Initiative, providing training in digital fundamentals.”

Independent adjudication committee
To ensure funding decisions are fair, independent, and transparent, the Digital News Transformation Fund has appointed a five-member Adjudication Committee, whose role will be to assess applications against Board-approved criteria using a 100-point scoring matrix and to make funding recommendations. Selected grantees will be ratified by the Fund’s Oversight and Advisory Board.

“Committee members were selected for their professional expertise, sector knowledge, and independence, with representation across race, gender, geography, language, and media type,” says Kunz. They bring a combined track record spanning journalism, digital innovation, media strategy, research, and public-interest communication.”

The inaugural committee members are:

  • Makhosazana ‘Khosi’ Zwane-Siguqa – Multi-award-winning journalist, editor and content strategist with 20 years’ experience in media.
  • Nomshado Lubisi – Media and technology communications strategist, currently leading Communications Strategy at Code for Africa.
  • Paul Crankshaw – Veteran journalist, publisher, and mentor to small media organisations.
  • Sisanda Nkoala – NRF-rated Associate Professor and award-winning researcher in linguistics and media studies.
  • Siphumelele Zondi – Media lecturer and former senior producer/presenter of technology news programmes on SABC.

Applications will be assessed on objectives, innovation and technology, feasibility, organisational capacity, audience engagement, diversity and inclusion impact, sustainability and revenue potential, and potential for sector-wide impact.

How to apply

Applications will be submitted through the Fund’s website. The application process is free, and no third party is authorised to charge a fee for applying. Guidelines and the application portal go live on 25 August.

For more information, visit: https://dntfund.org.za/

Police make breakthrough in missing journalist, partner case

On Sunday, 4 May 2025, a cross-province operation involving Gauteng and Mpumalanga police led by the Deputy National Commissioner of Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya and the Acting Provincial Commissioner of Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph MKhwanazi led to the questioning and subsequent arrests of four suspects. 

The first suspect according to investigations, is said to have been the last in the company of the missing couple. 

The second, third and fourth suspects were found with different vehicle parts believed to be that of the missing journalist. 

One of those arrested is said to be a mechanic who builds and fixes cars in the KwaMhlanga area in Mpumalanga.

Shockingly, one of the suspects is a 17-year-old (considered a minor) has been released into the care of his parents.

This as two of the Volkswagen Citi Golfs that were found in possession of the suspects have been seized. 

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has since changed the missing persons case of the couple to a kidnapping and car hijacking case. 

Ndlovu, the founder of Capital Live FM was reported missing on18 February 2025 together with his partner Zodwa Mdhluli. Since then, law enforcement authorities have been investigating the circumstances surrounding the couple’s disappearance.

According to the SAPS, additional charges such as house robbery and being in possession of stolen property are likely to be added. 

One suspect is expected to appear before the Mamelodi Magistrates Court in Pretoria today, 6 May 2025. Three others are expected to appear in the KwaMahlanga Magistrates Court later in the week.

A multidisciplinary team involving crime and counter intelligence, cyber-crime unit, organised crime detectives, serious and violent crimes detectives, SAPS Airwing as well as SAPS drone pilots are amongst the units involved in the case. 

“The search is still on for the missing couple and for other suspects.  This is a developing case,” said the police in a statement on Monday.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, has welcomed the arrest of the four suspects.
“While investigations are still underway, I want to commend the investigating team for the progress they have made thus far. We continue to hope and pray for the safe return of both Mr Ndlovu and Ms Mdhluli, said the Deputy Minister.

Morolong visited the Ndlovu family on Sunday, 04 May 2025, to offer his support and solidarity on behalf of government. 

Prior to the meeting with the family, he received a briefing from the police on the progress of the investigation. 

The Deputy Minister said that while the investigation is ongoing, the arrests mark a significant breakthrough in the case. 

The South African National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) welcomes the arrest of suspects concerning the disappearance of journalist Aserie Ndlovu and his partner.

The breakthrough made by the South African Police Service was long overdue, as Ndlovu and his partner, Zodwa Mdhuli, have been missing for the past three months. Ndlovu runs Capital Live FM and was a key member of the National Press Club, a stakeholder organisation that works closely with Sanef.

Sanef hopes the criminal justice system will get to the bottom of this case, even after the initial charges have been altered.

National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola also has welcomed the arrests.

BMOA Welcomes MDDA Report and Calls for Permanent Media Sustainability and Transformation Fund

The Black Media Owners Association (BMOA) warmly welcomes the release of the Economic Development Fund (EDF) report.

An event was held at the Sandton Sun Hotel in Johannesburg on Tuesday, May 6, a gathering of media stakeholders including media owners and organisations supporting media development.

Stephen Seakgwe, Executive Director of the BMOA, said the association is encouraged by how the Media Sustainability and Transformation Fund has been implemented and concluded with professionalism and accountability.

“We commend the MDDA for this crucial work in highlighting both the challenges and opportunities within the South African media landscape.”

Stephen Seakgwe executive director at the BMOA speaking during the Q&A Session at the Launch of the MDDA Economic Development Fund in Sandton on May 6.

The Economic Development Fund (EDF) was established in 2017 from an agreement between the MDDA – Media Development & Diversity Agency and the The Competition Commission South Africa which is meant to redress the anti-competitive behaviour by mainstream media and advertising companies.

This report underscores the urgent need to address the long-standing anti-competitive practices of major media companies that continue to impede the growth and sustainability of black-owned media enterprises.

For too long, these practices have stifled diversity and hindered the true reflection of South Africa’s democratic and demographic realities within the sector.
The BMOA firmly believes that the EDF has demonstrated the potential to be a powerful catalyst for transformation and a vital instrument in leveling the playing field.

The report highlights that the EDF has supported over 37 SMMEs, with a significant 60% being youth-owned, and has also contributed to gender empowerment within the sector. Furthermore, the EDF has provided bursaries to over 80 students, investing in the future leadership of the industry.

The success stories showcased in the report, featuring beneficiaries like Touch SA Marketing, which launched one of the first digital billboards in the township of Soshanguve, and community publications like Pondoland Times and Empuma News, demonstrate the tangible impact of targeted funding in empowering black media owners, fostering innovation, and creating much-needed employment opportunities.

The Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Kenny Morolong, delivered the keynote address and hailed the partnership between the MDDA and the Competition Commission in administering the fund successfully.

However, the need for support is ongoing and systemic. Therefore, the BMOA strongly advocates for the establishment of a permanent Media Sustainability and Transformation Fund.

This dedicated fund would provide consistent and reliable resources to:

  • Redress the historical imbalances caused by anti-competitive behaviour, enabling black media businesses to compete effectively.
  • Drive genuine transformation within the media sector, ensuring ownership, representation, and content that truly reflects the diversity of South African society.
  • Act as a catalyst for mass employment, fostering the growth of a vibrant and inclusive media industry that contributes meaningfully to the nation’s economy.

“We have seen the positive impact on youth empowerment, gender equity, and the growth of black-owned media businesses. A permanent fund is now essential to build on this foundation and secure a sustainable and equitable future for the South African media landscape.”

The BMOA stands ready to collaborate with the MDDA, government, and all stakeholders to ensure the establishment and effective implementation of this permanent fund.

We believe that by working together, we can build a media landscape that is equitable, sustainable, and truly representative of the South African people.

Download the report here. 

ICASA Opens Community Radio Licensing Applications

The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has officially opened the application process for Community Sound Broadcasting Services and Radio Frequency Spectrum Licences. This presents a crucial opportunity for Black-owned and led non-profit organisations to enter or expand their footprint in the broadcasting landscape.

As the Black Media Owners Association (BMOA), we strongly encourage our members and broader networks to consider this opportunity to grow independent, community-focused media platforms that reflect the voices and needs of our people.


Important Dates and Fees

  • Application Deadline: 20 June 2025
  • Time: 16:00 sharp
  • Application Fee: R4,719.00 (non-refundable)

Who Can Apply?

Only non-profit entities such as NPOs, NPCs, or Trusts are eligible to apply for a community radio station licence.

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be a registered non-profit entity for at least two years
  • Demonstrate community involvement, development, and empowerment
  • Comply with all regulatory requirements set by ICASA

Note: Existing community radio license holders are not eligible for this round.


What Will Disqualify Your Application?

  • Late submissions will not be accepted.
  • Incomplete applications or failure to pay the fee on time will be disqualified.
  • The disqualification list is not exhaustive — please consult the official Invitation to Pre-Register (ITP-R) document on the ICASA website.

Need a Spectrum Licence?

Applicants must:

  • Choose a preferred frequency from the available list
  • Include a technical feasibility study if changes to the technical spec are proposed
  • Provide relevant documents such as a signal distributor agreement or ECNS licence if applicable

At BMOA, we believe media ownership is a key pillar in economic transformation and community empowerment. Community radio is one of the most impactful tools for grassroots communication, especially in underrepresented and underserved areas.

📌 For the full application guide and forms, visit www.icasa.org.za

📧 Contact BMOA for support at: admin@bmoa.co.za

The Enduring Importance of Black Ownership in South African Media

On October 19, 1977, the apartheid government in South Africa carried out a sweeping crackdown on anti-apartheid activists and organizations, banning several publications and arresting numerous journalists and political leaders.

This infamous day, known as “Black Wednesday,” marked a dark moment in South Africa’s history, as the white-minority government sought to silence dissenting voices and tighten its grip on power.

Nearly 50 years later, as South Africa grapples with the digital disruption of traditional media and the rise of social media, the legacy of Black Wednesday serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of black ownership and representation in the country’s media landscape.

The Struggle for Media Transformation

In the post-apartheid era, the South African government has made efforts to transform the media industry and promote greater diversity and inclusivity. The Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act, enacted in 2003, aimed to increase black ownership and participation in various sectors, including media and communications.

However, progress has been slow, and the legacy of apartheid-era media control continues to cast a long shadow. According to a 2021 study by the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF), the country’s top 10 media companies are still majority-owned by white individuals and entities, with black ownership estimated at only around 20%.

The Persistence of Media Monopolies

The concentration of media ownership in the hands of a few large corporations is another challenge facing South Africa’s media landscape.

The country’s three largest media groups – Naspers, Independent Media, and Caxton – control a significant portion of the market, raising concerns about the diversity of voices and perspectives being represented.

This lack of media diversity is particularly concerning in an era of digital disruption, where social media platforms and online news outlets have become increasingly influential.

The danger is that these monopolistic structures could be replicated in the digital sphere, further entrenching the power of a few dominant players and limiting the ability of marginalized communities to access and shape the public discourse.

The Importance of Black Ownership

As South Africa reflects on the legacy of Black Wednesday, the need for greater black ownership and representation in the media industry remains paramount. Ownership plays a crucial role in shaping the editorial direction, content, and overall editorial priorities of media outlets, ensuring that the perspectives and experiences of diverse communities are properly reflected and amplified.

According to a 2020 report by the South African Press Council, the average black ownership rate across the country’s top 20 media companies is estimated to be around 25%. While this represents an improvement from the past, it still falls short of the government’s target of 30% black ownership in the sector.

Moreover, the concentration of black ownership is often limited to smaller, community-based media outlets, while the dominant players in the industry remain largely under the control of white-owned corporations. This imbalance perpetuates the marginalization of black voices and perspectives, undermining the democratic ideals that South Africa has long aspired to.

The Way Forward

As South Africa commemorates Black Wednesday, it is essential that the country re-energizes its efforts to transform the media industry and promote greater black ownership and participation. This may involve stronger regulatory measures, targeted investment and support for black-owned media enterprises, and a renewed commitment to addressing the legacy of apartheid-era media control.

Only by ensuring that the country’s media landscape reflects the diversity and richness of its people can South Africa truly honor the sacrifices and struggles of those who fought for a more inclusive and equitable society.

“The legacy of Black Wednesday must serve as a constant reminder of the work that remains to be done in safeguarding the freedom of the press and the right of all South Africans to have their voices heard,” Seakgwe concluded.

Entries open for the 2024 Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards

Anticipation levels in newsrooms across the country will rise as the opening date for entries into this year’s Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards (VJOY) has been announced as July 10.

Entrants can choose from 12 categories to enter their work, from Live Reporting and Breaking News; Investigative; Opinion; Lifestyle; Features; Photography; Sport; Financial & Economics; Politics; Sustainability, Innovation in Journalism, and the Young Journalist of the Year Award.

“As we commemorate 30 years of democracy in South Africa, we are reminded of the importance of media as the fourth estate that is crucial to our democracy. Ethical, independent and critical journalism holds those in power accountable and brings transparency to affairs that matter. Coinciding with 30 years of democracy, Vodacom South Africa celebrates 30 years of connecting South Africans and we are proud to be continuing our legacy of honouring excellence in journalism across a range of categories, recognising some of South Africa’s finest reporters and most newsworthy stories. Support for journalism remains paramount as the sustainability of journalism creates well-informed and connected societies,”

said Takalani Netshitenzhe, Director for External Affairs at Vodacom South Africa.

The judging panel for this year’s awards will once again be led by convener Mapi Mhlangu, who will guide her fellow judges as they debate the nuances of entries to decide which is the best. From 3 – 5 July, Mhlangu will host two daily virtual media roadshows to inform interested entrants about the rules of the competition, and entry mechanisms.

“Despite the significant strides made, the journalism sector faces numerous challenges today. These challenges demand a steadfast commitment to upholding ethical standards, reporting with integrity, and navigating the complexities of our time. As we imagine the next decade, there is no room for failure in sound journalistic storytelling. The future of our country relies on the dedication of journalists to uncover the truth, spark conversations, and drive positive change. I encourage all journalists to submit their best works to the Vodacom Journalist of the Year Awards and be part of celebrating what has been achieved in the past 30 years”, said Mapi Mahlangu.

Journalists must enter their best work produced between 01 August 2023 and 31 July 2024, at www.journalist.vodacom.co.za.

Entries open on 10 July and close midnight on 24 July, no late entries will be accepted.

Finalists chosen from the five regions will compete at the national finals that will be held on 31 October: 

  • Region A: Gauteng
  • Region B: Free State, Northern Cape, Northwest and Limpopo
  • Region C: KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga
  • Region D: Western Cape
  • Region E: Eastern Cape

The Vodacom Young Journalist Award offers an educational boost to nurture upcoming newsroom talent.

Regional category winners receive R5 000, national category winners, R10 000, and the overall Vodacom Journalist of the Year winner, R100 000. In the case of joint winners, prize money is shared. 

Academica, Local Print Media Collaborate in Fostering Sino-South Africa Cooperation

Article by Stephen Seakgwe (Executive Director – BMOA)

On Wednesday, June 19, the School of Tourism and Hospitality at the University of Johannesburg hosted a pivotal workshop focused on the intersection of Sino-South African and broader Sino-African relations, and the crucial role of local print media in these dynamics.

The event, skillfully moderated by Dr. Gideon Chitanga, aimed to illuminate how local journalists can effectively convey these complex relationships to their grassroots audiences, fostering a sense of community and shared future.

Opening Insights

Mr. Pan Qingjiang, Consulate-General of the People’s Republic of China in Johannesburg, commenced the workshop with aa keynote address on “Building a Community with a Shared Future in South Africa.”

He delved into the multifaceted agreements between South Africa and China, emphasizing the vision of a shared future for humanity. Highlighting China’s shift towards a win-win strategy in economic aid, he urged local media to familiarize themselves with initiatives like the Belt-and-Road Initiative (BRI).

“South Africa is one of the first countries to sign into the BRI and has been growing steadily for the past 15 years,” Mr. Pan noted. He underscored the pivotal role of academia and media in strengthening Sino-South African relations, calling for greater awareness and coverage of developmental projects beneficial to local communities.

Media’s Role in Community Engagement

Dr. Gideon Chitanga, from the Centre for Africa-China Studies at the University of Johannesburg, presented on “China-South Africa and Africa Relations: Community-Local Media, Content, and Sources of News in Building a Community with a Shared Future and Telling Our Own Stories.”

He emphasized the importance of local publishers taking an active interest in global events that impact their communities. Highlighting the economic and cultural ties between China and South Africa, Dr. Chitanga urged local media to cover the Chinese diaspora and local businesses, noting the potential for economic growth and job creation. He also stressed the significance of cultural exchange and international opportunities, such as scholarships for advanced studies in China, which can serve as valuable content for local audiences.

Challenges and Opportunities for Local Media

Mr. Austin Moyo, Publisher of Khanyisa News and Jozi Advertiser – Online, addressed the “Challenges Facing Local Community Media in Gauteng.”

He identified high printing and distribution costs, along with the pandemic-induced drop in ad sales, as major hurdles. Despite these challenges, Moyo highlighted the resilience and passion driving community media.

He advocated for leveraging a strong social media presence to supplement print operations and enhance audience engagement while acknowledging the need for training staff on newsroom policies. Moyo called for increased support in the form of technology and subsidies to boost the capacity of local publishers.

Developmental Journalism and Community Impact

Dr. Maud Blose, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Communication and Media at the University of Johannesburg, proposed a vision “Towards a Developmental and Balanced Narrative.” She encouraged community publishers to take pride in nurturing young talent, despite challenges in staff retention.

Dr. Blose introduced the concept of Developmental Journalism, where content is driven by ‘change agents’ aiming to create positive change while adhering to the basic principles of Journalism. She urged publishers to regularly assess their communities’ evolving needs and how they access news and information.

Dr. Oswelled Ureke, also from the University of Johannesburg, expanded on this theme by discussing how media can foster a sense of community. He critiqued mainstream media’s often negative portrayal of indigenous African communities, challenging local journalists to counter these stereotypes with more positive and accurate narratives.

“Are you community media or media reporting about the community?” he asked, urging publishers to deeply integrate their reporting with the identities and interests of their communities.

Bridging Local and Global Perspectives

Dr. Cliff Ochieng Mboya, from the Centre for Africa-China Studies, concluded the presentations with insights on “Local Community Newspapers: Writing South Africa-China, and Africa-China Relations at Community Media Level.”

He emphasized the importance of understanding Chinese policies and their local applicability, such as the impacts of BRICS and FOCAC. “If it affects you, it is relevant,” he stated, urging local media to make these global dynamics accessible and relevant to their audiences.

By telling their own stories and highlighting opportunities for growth and development, Dr Mboya says local journalists can significantly contribute to the socio-economic and cultural fabric of their societies.

He also shared some significant events that Pre-date the days of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Mboya said China’s first significant contact with Africa occurred during the Ming Dynasty when the fifth and sixth voyages of the famous Zheng He naval fleet reached the north-east coast of Africa during the first quarter of the fifteenth century.

Concluding Remarks

Researcher at UJ, Hellen Adogo, gave a fitting summary of what was covered in the workshop, unpacking ways publishers can consider their impact if they take their news content to new audiences.

Mr. Eric Phiri, Chairman of the Gauteng Association of Independent Publishers, delivered the vote of thanks, highlighting the need for continued initiatives like this workshop to develop and support community newspapers across the country.

This workshop underscored the vital role local print media play in bridging global and local perspectives, and fostering a shared future through informed and engaged communities.

Government recognizes media’s role in advancing democracy

The South African government has joined calls for the protection of journalists’ rights, particularly during a time when South Africa is preparing for national elections.

According the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO violence against journalists intensifies during election cycles.

“Professional journalism and a free and objective press are cornerstones of democracy and serve to hold society accountable. We acknowledge the essential role journalists play in our democracy fighting for truth. We condemn any form of violence or intimidation against journalists domestically and internationally.

“South Africa remains committed to supporting a free and independent press. The protection of journalists is of utmost importance, as it is a form of protection of our own rights”, said Acting Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Nomonde Mnukwa recently.

Following the assassination of two French journalists in Mali in 2013, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/68/163, which proclaimed November 2 as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. 

The resolution mobilises United Nations member states to intensify efforts to prevent violence against journalists and create a conducive environment for them to perform their work.

“This day provides an opportunity for all who believe in the advancement of democratic values and the preservation of citizen’s constitutional rights to speak out against any form of violence or harassment of journalists,” Mnukwa said.

Last month, South Africa commemorated Black Wednesday, which aims to raise awareness about the rights of journalists and remembers those who lost their lives fighting for the dignity of the profession.

In August, GCIS hosted a panel discussion with more than 100 journalism and communication students at the Tshwane University of Technology on the topic of Cyberbullying of female journalists, to create awareness on the harassment, discrimination and violence they face in the line of duty. 

Furthermore, GCIS is planning to host a webinar on “Violence Against Journalists and the Integrity of Elections,” in the coming week.

“This is to ensure that, leading up to the election period next year, everyone is cognisant that journalists keep society informed, and foster democratic discourse and integrity of electoral processes.  Details of the Webinar will be shared shortly.

“Government also commends the work done by the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) as well as the South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) and various partners on the workshops they have been hosting across the country to prepare media for reporting on the upcoming 2024 national general elections,” GCIS said.