Tag: transformation

Google Digital News Transformation Fund Opens for Applications

BMOA

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/

THE MDDA 2025 Grant Funding Opens For Applications

BMOA

The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) has recently opened its call for Grant Funding Applications for 2025/2026 and BMOA members are encouraged to apply.

The Call for Applications will remain open for a 4-week period from 04 July – 05 August 2025 for community media projects, including radio, TV and print publications, as well as small commercial print.

The MDDA is a statutory development agency for promoting and ensuring media development and diversity, embedded in the country’s Constitution.

It is a partnership between the Government and major print and broadcasting companies to assist in, amongst others, developing community and small commercial media in South Africa

An online application system is available on the MDDA website, and applicants are also allowed to apply via email or delivery of hard copy. Applicants are, however, discouraged from submitting an application via more than one channel.

Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Shoeshoe Qhu, says the Agency’s grant funding process is a crucial step in supporting an accessible and sustainable community media sector.

“As a statutory entity, our mandate includes encouraging ownership and control of, and access to media by historically disadvantaged communities as well as by historically diminished indigenous language and cultural groups. We therefore encourage the sector, particularly media serving marginalised communities, to participate in this process.”

The qualifying criteria is listed on the MDDA website. Furthermore, the MDDA is hosting roadshows across the country to support the sector in submitting their applications and empower media leaders and communities with critical governance skills and training.

On Monday, 7 July 2025, the Agency will host a hybrid workshop in Cape Town to allow for participants who cannot attend the training physically to participate online. Similar workshops have already been hosted in North-West and Mpumalanga with the remainder of the country’s provinces to follow in July and August.

Participants will receive training and insights on critical areas such as leadership, ethics, media management, and governance—skills essential to the sustainability and impact of community media operations.

The public is also encouraged to review the schedule for trainings to be hosted by the Agency in July to participate in trainings and take advantage of these opportunities should they occur in their regions.

The criteria for the grant call includes, amongst others, ineligibility for unlicensed broadcasters as all broadcast applications must have an ICASA license.

Applicants also need to ensure they are eligible through:

  • Providing credible information
  • Demonstrable governance of a stable board for NPOs.
  • Proving complete information as required.
  • Applying for requirements as stated in the MDDA’s scope of funding.

Applications will close at midnight on 01 August 2025.

For more information and/or interviews, please contact: The MDDA Communications unit, e-mail: ayabulela@mdda.org.za / 073 756 8461 or
margaret@mdda.org.za / 082 785 6071

For more updates regarding MDDA related news and information, follow us on our website and social media platforms:
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For media releases, speeches and news visit the MDDA portal at www.mdda.org.za.

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

BMOA

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. 

Economic Development Fund Project Report Final RSDownload

Media industry called to transform ownership patterns

BMOA

With the media industry fighting for its survival amidst the rise of digital media, Deputy Minister in The Presidency, Kenny Morolong, has called on the industry to make deliberate efforts to transform the sector’s ownership patterns.

“Government remains committed to working alongside industry stakeholders to ensure that South Africa’s media landscape is inclusive, competitive, and representative of the country’s diversity,” Morolong said.

The Deputy Minister was addressing the members of the Print and Digital Media Transformation and Revitalization Steering Committee in Rosebank, Johannesburg, on Friday (11 April 2025).

The committee was established to develop a Print and Digital Media Transformation and Revitalisation Report to advise government and the private sector on wide-ranging proposals aimed at transforming and revitalising the sector.  

The Minister painted a sobering picture of the industry’s current state, noting a dramatic decline in print newspaper (both commercial and local) circulation  – from approximately 45 million copies annually to dwindled numbers that were never imagined before, which is “very worrisome for government.”

“The current challenges of operating in the digital environment; excess print, distribution and transport cost; reduction in newspaper subscribers; dwindling circulation figures coupled with reduced advertising budgets, both from corporate and government, have forced publishers to close down, while others have become loss-making or liability enterprises. In the mist of all these things, we should not despair, we are a nation that works together to find common solutions,” Morolong said.

The Deputy Minister emphasised the critical role played by the media in society and reaffirmed government’s commitment to revitalise the industry.

“We have a responsibility to save an industry that is ailing and to do so, there needs to be government investment. You can’t put government in a position where it must support an industry that does not want to transform. 

“You are running a business, but you are also running an institution which has got a moral obligation to keep society informed. We want to support you because of your role in education and informing society. We have a responsibility to support you and empower you as business,” he said.

The Print and Digital Media Transformation and Revitalization Steering Committee comprises various media executives of print and digital media companies, industry bodies such as the Association of Independent Publishers, Media Development and Diversity Agency and the Press Council. 

Gauteng government builds solid relations with Community Media

BMOA

The MDDA is at the Gauteng Provincial Government’s engagement with Community media at the Anew Hotel in Parktown, Johannesburg on Friday, 22 November 2024.

The event is attended by the Gauteng Provincial Government’s representatives as well as the community media sector bodies such as SACRO, NCRF, AIP, Black Media Owners Association (BMOA), and Community Publishers Association.

In her opening, Ms Phumla Sekhonyane, Deputy Director General, lamented the false narrative that says that the government has not done anything for the past thirty years. She also confirmed that the community media sector is an important part of the government communication links, because they come from a developmental perspective, which is the best view.

Various issues were raised by community media owners and practitioners, including journalists and marketing personnel. Some of the grievances included: accuracy of information about community media statistics, the lack of communication and respect for community-based journalists by officials, and, lack of monitoring for community media in their administration and compliance.

Mr Vuyo Mhaga, Chief Director, Public Relations spoke on the provincial government’s priorities, which provides ample partnership opportunities for the community media sector.

Media Sustainability and Transformation In Need

Ms Shoeshoe Qhu, MDDA CEO introduced the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) as a media development agency that advocates for the growth of community media, she also presented highlights from the Community Media Sustainability Report.

In the report, about 7% of the community media in South Africa is deemed ‘Sustainable’.

The Research and Development of a Sustainability Model for Community and Small Commercial Media (CSCM), conducted by the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), has shown that the majority of CSCM organisations – 74% – are partially sustainable.

The study highlighted that while they have access to some of the necessary skills, including resources and financial capacity to be self-sustainable, some CSCM are currently facing challenges, including a lack of financial resources, effective governance structures, an enabling environment and skills, being among the main challenges facing the media organisations.

According to the study which was launched in Johannesburg on Tuesday, a lack of finances was as a result of various factors including difficulty in attracting advertisers, which the study raised as a concern, given that most organisations within the CSMC sector rely on advertising revenue.

“It was found that private sector advertisers are reluctant to advertise with CSCM organisations due to the perception that the organisations are unstable and unprofessional, in addition to these organisations having limited audience reach which is seen to limit the potential exposure of the advertiser’s product to target audiences.

“The challenge in attracting advertisers also extended to government advertising, with representatives from CSCM organisations, as well as representatives from the MDDA, noting that local government appeared to be reluctant to advertise with CSCM platforms,” the study found.

Responding to the findings, MDDA Board Member, Hoosain Karjiekar, emphasised that governance was essential for community media to be sustainable, as it provides the structure and processes that ensure accountability, transparency and ethical management.

However, Karjiekar noted that many community media outlets are often operating with limited resources, struggle with governance due to skill gaps, unclear policies, or competing responsibilities.

Karjiekar emphasised the importance for community media sector bodies and leadership of the media institutions to commit to promoting strong governance practices and streamlining compliance requirements.

“Training for board members and community media leaders in ethical leadership, strategic decision-making, and resource management can go a long way. Strong governance not only improves operations but builds trust with the community, which is essential for long-term support.

“Many community media outlets are also constrained by complex compliance standards that can seem overwhelming. Regulatory frameworks must adapt to the realities of community media, acknowledging their smaller operational capacities while still promoting transparency. Simplified compliance pathways can help these organisations adhere to important standards without stifling their work,” Karjiekar said.

Enhancing revenue generation for financial sustainability

On financial sustainability, which was one of the biggest hurdles facing the community media, Karjiekar said that to fulfil their mission in the longterm CSCM need diversified revenue streams beyond traditional advertising, “which may not always be viable”.

“As the Community Media Sustainability Research Report proposes; community media must explore some of the strategies [including] building partnerships and community sponsorships, leveraging grant funding and crowdfunding, implementing membership programs, [and] hosting community events and workshops,” he said.

He reiterated that ensuring community media sustainability meant fortifying the communities, supporting democracy, and safeguarding voices that might otherwise go unheard.

“Through improved governance, adaptive compliance, and creative revenue strategies, community media can not only survive but thrive, continuing to champion the stories, struggles and successes of the communities they serve,” Karjiekar said.

The study launch coincided with the month that marks the anniversary of Black Wednesday on 19 October 1977, when the apartheid regime silenced critical voices for the marginalised by banning influential newspapers The World and Weekend World. 

The Enduring Importance of Black Ownership in South African Media

BMOA

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.

Call for women ownership in media sector

BMOA

While government policies have enabled the participation of women in the media sector, Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Director of Media Relations, Tshegofatso Modubu, has called for an in depth look at the ownership and control by women in the media space.

“In terms of shattering the glass ceiling with the 30 years of democracy, we are seeing women get into the operational space and a bit more into the managerial space. We need to think about ownership and control of media in terms of women,” Modubu said on Thursday.

She was speaking at a panel discussion themed “30 Years of Women Excellence in the Community Media Sector” hosted by the GCIS, together with the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) in Pretoria.

The media and communications panel discussion event offered a wealth of insightful perspectives from industry experts. The diverse panel, comprising thought leaders from journalism, governance, public relations and digital media, delivered an engaging and informative discussion that tackled pressing topics such as the future of journalism, the impact of social media on communication, and the evolving role of media in shaping public discourse. 

Reflecting on the 30 Years of Women Excellence in Community Media Sector, Modubu noted that since 1994, freedom of expression has expanded. 

“We have done a lot as a country in terms of catching up on freedom of expression, on issues of plurality in the media sector and ensuring that the space is opened [up] to women.

“If you think about the era of apartheid when there was a lot of censorship, and certain voices were not allowed to speak, the media was slightly controlled because there were some newspapers that were aligned to the agenda of the regime.

“Since 1994, the media landscape has expanded, and it has been able to keep up with technological developments. We have a thriving convergent media. We see our media being challenged to move from print into the digital space because of the convergence.”

Modubu highlighted that through the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA), government is providing support to for those who want to develop community and small commercial media.

Through interventions such as the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and the Preferential Procurement Policy, government is also promoting the participation of women in any sector of society. 

“We see women being in the forefront of journalism in this country. Growing up, we would see newsreaders, which was what was designated for them. We have seen women go into talk show hosting, we have seen women become political journalists and being at the forefront [of journalism].

“There is a strong move to get women into boards because that is where decisions are made. Media companies have boards and women are not participating in those spaces.

“The chief executive officers … women are not playing in that space. These are some of the things we need to think about while we celebrate the strides that have been made,” she explained.

In addition, Modubu welcomed the move by the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) to appoint Nwabisa Makunga as Chairperson of the forum.

Makunga is leading a team responsible for representing those who are responsible for telling stories and representing the aspirations and wishes of the population.

“We have women editors in print and broadcast media, SANEF has the second women occupying the position of chairperson. All of this has been enabled by the policies that government has put into place. 

“Our responsibility, as people who work in the space of policy making, is to ensure that those policies work, and they work for practitioners within the media space. There are challenges such as the cyberbullying of women, harassment and facilitated technological gender-based violence against women. 

“Those are the challenges that we have to think about and how we can create laws and policies to change that,” Modubu said.

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

BMOA

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

BMOA

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. 

Alternative to advertising: How community newspapers can build and grow their revenue streams

BMOA

In order to run a sustainable media organization, publishers are compelled to consider advertising as their primary source of income. Ads has always been a leader in how media stays alive, however, due to the digital disruption that has bought social media and new media in to the industry, publishers are now forced to have alternatives to getting revenue.

There are many services that a community newspaper business could offer beyond just advertising space. Some ideas could include:

1. Event listings: Many people turn to community newspapers to find out about local events and activities. You could offer a service where businesses and organizations can submit information about their events to be included in the newspaper. 

2. Community calendar: Along similar lines, you could create a community calendar that lists all of the events happening in the area. This could be a stand-alone section of the newspaper or an online feature.

3. Local news coverage: Many people value having a source of local news that covers events and issues specific to their community. You could offer in-depth coverage of local news and events, such as city council meetings, school board meetings, and more.

4. Business directory: You could create a directory of local businesses that includes contact information, descriptions of the products or services they offer, and other relevant details. This could be a stand-alone publication or an online feature.

5. Special interest sections: Many newspapers have sections that cover specific topics in depth, such as sports, arts and entertainment, food and dining, etc. You could create these types of sections in your newspaper to appeal to readers with particular interests.

6. Classified ads: You could offer a platform for people to post classified ads, such as job listings, real estate listings, and more.

7. Subscription service: You could offer a subscription service that allows readers to receive the newspaper regularly by mail or online.

8. Custom printing: Depending on your resources, you might also consider offering custom printing services to local businesses and organizations. This could include printing brochures, business cards, and other materials.