Hopewell Radebe

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April 25 2025

SANEF Holds Successful Engagement with GCIS

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) welcomes the constructive and open engagement held with the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) on Tuesday, 22 April 2025.

The meeting, held in a spirit of mutual respect, proved to be a significant step forward in addressing longstanding concerns and reaffirming the critical role of the media in our constitutional democracy.

SANEF Chairperson Mr Makhudu Sefara opened the discussion by providing context on the forum’s repeated attempts to foster dialogue with the government. He reflected the widespread frustration among editors and journalists regarding limited access to key government leaders and called for more transparent and regular interactions.

In response, acting DDG: Inter-Governmental Coordination and Stakeholder Management, Mr William Baloyi, acknowledged the challenges. He offered a formal apology for the exclusion of some journalists during the recent Eastern Cape presidential visit and undertook to review communication protocols to prevent similar issues in the future.

The meeting was notable for its candid tone and honest exchange. SANEF raised several key issues, including consistent and inclusive briefings, equitable access for all media platforms, and a more responsive communication framework. SANEF management committee leaders also reiterated the urgency of discussing broader policy concerns, such as media sustainability, journalist safety, and the regulatory environment.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation. SANEF appreciates the openness demonstrated by GCIS and believes this engagement has laid the groundwork for a renewed partnership based on trust, accountability, and mutual understanding.

Importantly, GCIS committed to strengthening engagement by having regular meetings, improving coordination, and working collaboratively to ensure that all journalists, regardless of medium, are treated fairly. Mr. Baloyi further emphasised the role of GCIS as the point of contact for resolving media-related issues and pledged to ensure that government communications become more transparent and accessible.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to cooperation and dialogue. SANEF appreciates the spirit of openness demonstrated by the GCIS and believes this engagement has laid the foundation for a renewed partnership based on trust, accountability, and mutual understanding.

Going forward, SANEF will continue to advocate for meaningful, inclusive, and transparent dialogue with all levels of government. As a key pillar of democracy, the media must fulfil its watchdog role of holding power to account, without fear or favour.

Note to Editors:

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) is a non-profit organisation whose members are editors, senior journalists, and journalism trainers from all areas of South African media. We are committed to championing South Africa’s hard-won freedom of expression and promoting quality, ethics, and diversity in the South African media. We promote excellence in journalism by fighting for media freedom, writing policy submissions, research, and education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.

For more information, please contact:

Makhudu Sefara – Chairperson (079) 177-2134

Tshamano Makhadi – Deputy Chairperson (082) 223-0621

Dr. Glenda Daniels – Secretary-General (083) 229-9708

Sbu Ngalwa – Treasurer-General (073) 404-1415

Slindile Khanyile – Media Freedom Chair (083) 471-0367

Katy Katopodis – Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022

Judy Sandison – KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334

Rochelle De Kock – Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028

Sisanda Nkoala – Western Cape Convenor (073) 138 5564

Reggy Moalusi – Executive Director (071) 682-3695

Twitter: @SAEditorsForum

April 9 2025

Media Partners Present Joint Submission to Media and Digital Platforms Market Inquiry

Access to Information & Media Policy, Media Freedom, News, Partners

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF), along with nine media partners, submitted a joint response to the Competition Commission’s Media and Digital Platforms Market Inquiry on Monday, 7 April 2025, the final day for submissions.

The partners include the Press Council of South Africa, Association of Independent Publishers (AIP), Media Monitoring Africa, Forum of Community Journalists, SOS Support Public Broadcasting Coalition, GIBS Media Leadership Think Tank, the Campaign for Free Expression, and the Campaign on Digital Ethics.

Commending the Inquiry’s Provisional Report, the group called it “a strong foundation for enhancing the sustainability of the media ecosystem in South Africa.” They urged the Commission to urgently seek an extension under Section 43B(4)(b) of the Competition Act, ensuring the Inquiry’s continued legal operation and notifying stakeholders accordingly.

Their submission addresses key issues raised in the Provisional Report, highlighting the critical democratic role of a free and independent media.

While the report acknowledged that competition distortions adversely affect constitutional rights—especially among underrepresented vernacular and community media—the submission noted that it failed to specify which rights were impacted. The media partners argue these include the rights to dignity, equality, language and culture, privacy, and access to information. They recommended that each findings section of the final report explicitly identify the rights infringed to better align with the spirit of the Bill of Rights.

A key focus of the submission is the call for social media platforms to compensate the media sector. The parties believe there is sufficient justification for compensation and recommend that the Inquiry propose an estimated compensation range payable to a Media Industry Fund. While acknowledging the challenge of quantifying this figure, the group stressed that this should not exempt platforms from accountability for past and ongoing harm.

On children’s rights, the partners urged the Inquiry to propose interventions that shift responsibility from children to adult users and platforms, calling for effective systems to detect and block harmful content.

The group welcomed the recommendation to establish a Media Industry Fund but asked for greater clarity on its structure, purpose, and governance. SANEF and AIP expressed willingness to collaborate further with the Inquiry to ensure their respective funds align with the broader goals of a national media sustainability strategy. “SANEF is amenable to further discussions… to ensure the Journalism Fund South Africa (JFSA) is fit for purpose,” the submission stated.

They also called for the Inquiry to commission independent research to quantify the economic harm caused by big tech’s anti-competitive practices. This research, they argued, should:

Calculate revenue losses across the media landscape, particularly for smaller and community outlets;
Assess the broader democratic impact of newsroom closures and reduced journalistic capacity;
Provide a basis for fair reparations reflecting direct financial losses and societal damage;
Use a 14-year timeframe, matching the Inquiry’s existing scope, to assess long-term effects.

On potential remedies, the group advocated for technology platform reforms. If platforms resist necessary changes, they proposed imposing a levy—rather than a general tax—to ensure the resulting funds are ring-fenced for the Media Industry Fund. “Such a levy could be collected by a sector-specific regulator or a designated government department, guided by appropriate legislation and oversight,” the submission suggested.

The submission also urged the Inquiry to address the structural bias within Google’s search ranking system. It argued that original, local journalism should be promoted without penalising resource-constrained outlets.

The media partners recommended that the Inquiry consider whether new enabling legislation is required to establish the Media Industry Fund. Even if not necessary, they believe the Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition should be encouraged to develop regulations to support the implementation of any levy or fund.

On data-sharing, the submission emphasised the importance of balancing competition, transparency, and personal privacy. It referenced a November 2024 resolution by the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights, which warned against exploitative data practices by tech platforms and recognised equitable access to data as essential for a fair and inclusive digital society.

However, the submission also flagged concerns around surveillance capitalism and the unauthorised scraping of media content for use in commercial AI initiatives. These practices, it argued, undermine the unique value proposition of original journalism, which is costly to produce but easily exploited by technology platforms.

The group concluded by reiterating its support for the Inquiry’s process and findings and affirmed its willingness to continue constructive engagement to safeguard the future of journalism in South Africa.

ENDS

March 18 2025

Tony Karon on Digital-First Newsrooms and Storytelling in the Global South

Media Freedom, News, Partners, Seminars

Navigating the Future: Tony Karon on Digital-First Newsrooms and Storytelling in the Global South

As the global media landscape shifts towards digital-first strategies, journalists must rethink storytelling approaches to remain relevant. This was the central message from Tony Karon a seasoned journalist and editor at AJ Plus, who addressed the SANEF Young Women Leaders in News Media Seminar on Thursday, March 13, 2025.

Speaking to a room full of aspiring and established journalists, Karon shared insights on the evolution of digital-first newsrooms and the role of journalists in challenging dominant Western narratives.

Digital-First Journalism: A New Paradigm

Karon originally from South Africa and now working with Al Jazeera’s digital platform, emphasised that digital-first journalism requires a shift in perspective. Unlike traditional newsrooms with fixed programming schedules, platforms like AJ Plus publish directly into social feeds, competing for attention alongside major Western media outlets such as CNN, BBC, and The New York Times.

“You have one shot to make an impact,” Karon explained. “We do not follow the ‘he said, she said’ format of mainstream news. Instead, we focus on whose voices are being ignored and whose stories are not being told.”

The traditional structure of news prioritises statements from officials and those in power, but digital-first platforms like AJ Plus adopt a bottom-up approach, amplifying the voices of those experiencing global crises firsthand. This shift is particularly evident in the outlet’s coverage of Gaza, where they prioritise stories from civilians rather than government representatives.

Decentring the Western Narrative

A major theme of Karon’s talk was the need to challenge and deconstruct Western-centric narratives that have long dominated global journalism. He praised South Africa’s vocal stance on Palestine, noting how the country has emerged as a leader in advocating for media narratives that expose imbalances of power.

“In many ways, Al Jazeera was founded to address these imbalances,” he noted. “The question isn’t just about presenting facts, but about which facts matter and whose perspectives are included.”

Karon highlighted how global audiences—especially young people—are increasingly disillusioned with traditional media narratives. Platforms like TikTok, often dismissed as trivial, are hosting deep discussions about history and politics. “Young people are not disengaged. They do not trust the old ways of storytelling,” he said.

The Toolbox for the Future Journalist

For those looking to thrive in a digital-first newsroom, Karon stressed the importance of adaptability, multilingualism, and a global outlook. He recounted experiences from his newsroom, where colleagues seamlessly switch between English, Arabic, French, and Mandarin—an asset in an increasingly interconnected world.

“Adding a language to your skill set opens up job opportunities and allows you to engage with diverse sources directly,” he advised.

Additionally, he underscored the importance of recognising the shifting geopolitical landscape. The era when U.S. policy dictated global outcomes is waning, he argued, and journalists in the Global South must embrace their agency in shaping narratives that matter to their communities.

A Call to Action

Karon’s message to young journalists was clear: the future of journalism belongs to those who embrace new formats, prioritise underrepresented voices, and think beyond the traditional structures of power.

“Your world is not centred in America,” he concluded. “It’s up to you to tell the stories that matter to your people.”

His talk energised the audience, reinforcing the idea that digital-first journalism is not just about technology, but about reclaiming storytelling for those whose voices have too often been ignored.

The workshop, organised by Sisanda Nkoala, SANEF’s Western Cape convenor, in collaboration with multi-award-winning veteran journalist, Crystal Orderson, focuses on empowering young women in journalism.
Sisanda highlighted the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions within the news media, despite a majority of journalism students being women. The event aims to inspire and equip participants with the tools needed to effect change in the industry.
The workshop focused on empowering young women journalists by addressing the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles within the news media. Sisanda Nkoala highlighted the disparity between the number of female journalism students and their presence in leadership positions, expressing gratitude to contributors like Dzudzie Netshisaulu, SANEF administrator and events organiser.
The event included a video featuring messages from women leaders in the industry and aimed to provide attendees with inspiration and practical tools to navigate their careers. Dianne Walker and Judy Sanderson shared their experiences and advice, emphasising the importance of understanding management dynamics, professionalism, and strategic networking for aspiring future young women leaders.
The program featured a panel of distinguished women in media, including Crystal Orderson, Pam Zokufa, Anne Wentzel, Deirdre Ewing, and Zulpha Khan, who shared insights from their diverse backgrounds.
Deirdre recounted her journey into journalism, emphasising the importance of public broadcasting and local storytelling. The discussion also touched on the evolving media landscape, including the challenges posed by technology and the need for ethical standards in journalism.
Deirdre highlighted the financial challenges facing traditional broadcasters like the SABC and the necessity for journalists to balance storytelling with financial viability, advocating for credibility over speed in news reporting. The overall aim was to equip the next generation of women journalists with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in a changing industry. Ends

March 4 2025

SANEF Engages with the South African Human Rights Commission

Disinformation, Media Freedom, News, Partners

Chris Nissen SAHRC Chairperson: Pic; Malherbe Nienaber/Netwerk24

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has called for stronger collaboration between the Commission and the media, emphasising their shared responsibility in protecting the public and monitoring the government.

“We stand together with the media,” Chris Nissen, SAHRC Chairperson, stated at the annual meeting between the SAHRC and the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) on February 24, 2005. “The media plays a critical role in alerting the SAHRC to incidents that fall within our mandate to monitor, investigate, or promote as part of our human rights obligations.”

He highlighted the media’s essential function in disseminating information and knowledge to the public, enabling informed decision-making. He further underscored the Commission’s appreciation for its relationship with the media.

Nissen proposed that engagement between the SAHRC and the media should extend beyond formal meetings to include collaborative activities such as annual lectures, workshops, and seminars.

“We live in a country facing three significant challenges: inequality, poverty, and unemployment. As the Human Rights Commission, our concerns are closely tied to the socio-economic crisis. We urge the media to engage with us as partners while also supporting our broader mission to build a better South Africa. Together, we can uphold human rights and responsibilities.”

He also stressed the importance of maintaining the independence of both institutions while exploring opportunities for cooperation.

“We can collaborate on various programs while respecting each other’s independence. You are independent. We are independent. But we can work together even when our opinions differ,” he said.

During the meeting, SAHRC commissioners shared details about their respective portfolios and the provinces where they are stationed. SANEF, in turn, outlined its 2025 program of action, highlighting plans for voter education training for journalists ahead of the 2026 local government elections. This initiative aims to equip journalists with the knowledge they need to inform the public effectively.

The commissioners expressed their gratitude to the media for its accurate and fair reporting on the Commission’s investigative inquiries in Mpumalanga and the Free State. They also commended the media’s balanced coverage of discussions between the Commission and various government ministers, including those responsible for Water and Sanitation, Cooperative Governance, and engagements with the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation.

The Commission acknowledged that media coverage had significantly enhanced its visibility and reach within communities, ensuring broader awareness of its work.

SANEF used the opportunity to raise concerns about the challenges journalists face, particularly cyberbullying and harassment, with female journalists often being targeted. The organisation also highlighted the intimidation — both direct and indirect — that journalists endure, especially during political campaign seasons.

The SAHRC acknowledged these concerns, noting the increasing use of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) to intimidate journalists and suppress legitimate reporting.

“It is troubling that legal mechanisms are being misused to hinder investigative journalism,” Nissen remarked. “Such tactics falsely portray journalism as harassment to silence critical reporting.”

He revealed that the Commission had discussed this issue at its recent Senate meeting and committed to supporting the media fraternity. The SAHRC pledged to issue statements in defense of journalists facing harassment and expressed interest in tackling misinformation and disinformation, another key area of concern for the media.

Additionally, the Commission committed to continuing its visits to newsrooms, fostering open discussions with journalists and editors in their work environments to better understand their challenges and concerns.

Ends

February 28 2025

SANEF Engages Parliament on the State of the Media

Access to Information & Media Policy, Community Media, Media Freedom, News, Partners

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) participated in a panel discussion before the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Communication and Digital Technologies on Wednesday in Pretoria. The discussion focused on the current state of the media in South Africa, with SANEF highlighting the devastating impact of economic challenges—particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic—which has led to the closure of numerous community-based print, online, and broadcast platforms. SANEF emphasised the critical role of community media in preserving and promoting Indigenous languages, calling for greater recognition and support for these platforms.

During the session, SANEF outlined its key advocacy initiatives, including efforts to enhance access to government-related information across all three spheres of administration and among state agencies.

Additionally, SANEF used the opportunity to brief the committee on its recent Indigenous Languages and Media seminars, hosted in partnership with the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB) and the United Nations in Pretoria. These seminars were aimed at strengthening the use and development of Indigenous languages through various media platforms.

Another major focus of SANEF’s engagement was its Digitisation Drive for Community Media, an initiative designed to improve the digital presence and sustainability of community media organisations. Through this pilot project, fifteen community publications and radio stations received support to establish viable, self-sustaining websites, alongside advanced leadership, and management training. The initiative equipped these media partners with essential digital tools and platforms, enhancing their content creation and distribution capabilities.

Recognising the industry-wide shift from traditional media—such as print newspapers and radio—to digital platforms, SANEF’s Digitisation Drive specifically supports independent community publishers and broadcasters in adapting to this transition. The program provided equitable access to technology and training, ensuring that community media could effectively reach and engage their audiences in the digital space.

Additionally, SANEF explained the Community Media Support Services (CMSS), as an ongoing initiative aiding media organisations that were not part of the initial pilot program. By bridging the digital divide, this initiative is helping community media remain relevant and financially sustainable.

SANEF also appealed to the government to fulfill its commitment of allocating at least 30% of its advertising budget to community media platforms. This measure would provide much-needed financial support to these platforms, empowering them to continue their vital work in promoting Indigenous languages and serving local communities.

SANEF remains committed to advocating for policies that ensure a sustainable and diverse media landscape in South Africa, with a strong emphasis on protecting press freedom and fostering media innovation.

Committee Chairperson Commits to Support the Work of GCIS and Media Sector

In a statement after the event, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Communication and Digital Technologies, Ms Khusela Sangoni Diko, reiterated the committee’s commitment to collaborate with the work done by Government Communication and Information Systems (GCIS) and the media sector.

As part of its week-long oversight visit to Gauteng, the committee spent the whole day at the GCIS offices in Pretoria on Wednesday engaging with the GCIS on its value chain across all spheres of government as well as compliance with the 30% government Adspend for community media.

The committee was then dismayed to learn about the non-existent of policy, regulation and legislative framework upon which the GCIS can rely on to enforce this crucial undertaking by government, which was designed to augment the Media Development and Diversity Agency’s (MDDA’s) funding stream for the community media. Ms Diko said that the matter should be given attention, if the country is serious about developing the much-needed community media.

The committee also engaged with MDDA and the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) on the status of community print and online media on sustainability in a digital age.

Although acknowledging the need for transformation to digital platforms and the use of artificial intelligence by the community media, the committee chairperson emphasised the importance of preserving the print community newspapers. “We call for digital first, and not digital only as we seek to transform and guarantee the sustainability of community media,” she said.

She also welcomed the Digital Media Transformation Fund set aside by AIP and Google to fund community digital media platforms, saying the initiative will go a long way in transforming the community media space.

The last part of the programme consisted of two segments of panel discussions on advertising in community newspapers and online media by GCIS, Business Unity South Africa, Media Mix and Capro as well as promotion of indigenous language media by GCIS, PanSalb and the South African National Editors Forum.

Ms Diko said that the committee will take all discussions into consideration when compiling an oversight report, which will consist of clear recommendations on the way forward.

Ends

Access to Information & Regulatory Site Wide Image

February 25 2025

Media Milestone Against Big Tech’s Unfair Competition

Access to Information & Media Policy, Disinformation, Media Freedom, News, Sustainability & Media Relief Fund

Media Milestone Against Big Tech’s Unfair Competition

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against unfair competition from big tech firms. The organisation has welcomed the provisional findings and remedies released by the Competition Commission Media and Digital Platforms Market Inquiry (MDPMI).

Download the MDPMI Provisional Report

Read SANEF statement on the MDPMI report.

This development marks a crucial step in addressing the challenges faced by the South African media landscape, which has been severely impacted by the rise of digital platforms and social media over the past two decades.

The inquiry was a landmark investigation into the impact of major technology companies on the country’s media industry. The report has validated longstanding concerns that tech giants such as Google, Meta, and X (formerly Twitter) have undermined South African journalism, depriving media houses of much-needed revenue and contributing to widespread job losses in the industry.

This inquiry, which has drawn international attention, follows similar battles in countries such as Canada and Australia, where governments have pushed for financial restitution from Big Tech to support their national news industries.

The commission’s findings offer a glimmer of hope for South African media houses, which have seen their advertising revenues gutted over the last two decades due to the dominance of digital platforms. However, the battle is far from over, as initial reactions from tech firms indicate they are unlikely to comply without resistance.

With AI-driven search and social platforms reshaping how people find news and information, how can media organisations stay visible and valued? Is this a turning point for journalism or just another difficult chapter? And what changes will help newsrooms maintain their essential role in their communities and remain sustainable?

The MDPMI’s findings paint a stark picture of how Big Tech’s dominance has affected the local media landscape. Over the past two decades, the number of journalists in South Africa has been cut in half, leaving newsrooms understaffed and overburdened. Community media outlets, which play a crucial role in ensuring media plurality and accessibility, have been hit the hardest, with many shutting down due to financial constraints.

SANEF and other media advocacy groups have long argued that digital platforms have built their business models on the content produced by news organisations without offering fair compensation.

While tech companies claim they provide value by directing traffic to news websites, the commission’s report found that this is far from sufficient to offset the damage they have caused. Google, for instance, is estimated to generate between R800 million and R900 million annually from news-related searches, while local media only sees about R200 million in referral benefits.

The issue extends beyond financial losses. The rise of social media and algorithm-driven content curation has also facilitated the spread of misinformation and cyberbullying, further weakening the credibility of traditional news sources. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, which aggregate and summarise news content without permission, threaten to erode media revenue even further by reducing the need for audiences to visit news websites.

Proposed Remedies and Challenges Ahead

One of the key recommendations in the report is that Google should contribute between R300 million and R500 million per year into a Journalism Sustainability Fund over the next three to five years. SANEF, while acknowledging this as a step in the right direction, argues that this amount is too conservative given the scale of damage inflicted on the industry. Furthermore, the report suggests that YouTube should increase its revenue share for local media and that Meta should adjust its algorithm to prioritise South African news sources.

Beyond direct compensation, the commission has proposed regulatory measures to address digital advertising monopolies and AI content scraping. These include imposing levies on tech companies that fail to adequately compensate media outlets, as well as creating mechanisms to allow publishers to opt out of AI-driven content use without losing search engine visibility.

However, it remains uncertain whether these measures will be implemented effectively. Google has already signaled resistance, with spokesperson Ekaterina Kondratieva dismissing claims that the company disproportionately benefits from news content. If past experiences in other countries are any indication, tech firms may threaten to block South African news content altogether rather than comply with new regulations.

A Turning Point for Media Freedom and Democracy

The MDPMI report is not just about financial compensation—it is about preserving South Africa’s democratic institutions. The Competition Commission has made it clear that a thriving, independent media is fundamental to upholding the country’s constitutional right to information. Without adequate funding, journalism will continue to decline, leaving citizens vulnerable to misinformation and weakening the country’s democratic foundations.

Media experts warn that if Big Tech remains unchecked, the consequences will be dire. The decline of journalism has already led to increased juniorisation of newsrooms, fewer investigative reports, and a heavier reliance on syndicated content, all of which undermine the role of the press as a watchdog. If the government fails to enforce meaningful regulations, South Africa risks falling into a media crisis where high-quality news becomes a luxury rather than a public good.

The Road Ahead: What Comes Next?

Stakeholders, including SANEF, have been given four months to engage with the findings and make further submissions before the final report is released later this year. The outcome of this process will determine whether South Africa can set a precedent for other countries facing similar battles with Big Tech, or if it will succumb to the same fate as news industries that have failed to secure fair remuneration.

For now, SANEF remains cautiously optimistic but resolute. The organisation is calling on all media stakeholders, policymakers, and civil society groups to rally behind the report’s recommendations and push for stronger enforcement mechanisms. The fight for media sustainability is far from over, but with coordinated effort and political will, South Africa has a chance to reclaim control over its news industry and safeguard press freedom for future generations.

Ends

February 21 2025

The Free Expression Legal Network

Media Freedom, News

The Free Expression Legal Network: A New Era for Media Freedom

Judge Navi Pillay addresses the launch of the Free Expression Legal Network in Sandton.

In a landmark initiative to defend media freedom and uphold free expression, the Free Expression Legal Network was officially launched in Johannesburg on February 18, 2025, to fortify legal protections for those who risk their lives and careers to bring truth to the public.

November 23 2024

SANEF Mourns the Passing of Journalist Mduduzi Dlamini

Obituaries

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) is deeply saddened by the passing of veteran journalist Mduduzi Dlamini on Friday, 15 November, at the age of 55.

Dlamini was a trailblazer in arts, culture, and fashion reporting, earning widespread respect for his passion and relentless pursuit of the truth. His colleagues fondly remember him as a dedicated journalist who embodied the ethos of the “3 AM school of journalism,” a nod to British reporters who worked tirelessly to secure exclusive stories before the day broke.

“Mduduzi approached his investigative pieces with unrelenting determination, much like a rottweiler with a bone. He would not rest until he uncovered the full truth,” recalls Mapula Nkosi, Managing Editor of *City Press*. She first encountered Dlamini years ago in the “City Press” newsroom, where his work ethic and enthusiasm stood out, especially during the rise of tabloid journalism.

Dlamini’s career spanned various publications, including Sunday World and City Press. He was also a frequent contributor to local radio stations, where he shared his insights on celebrity culture across music, television, and film. His colleagues admired his breadth of knowledge, which extended beyond the arts to encompass topics like history, literature, fashion, and even the economy.

“Reading Mduduzi’s reviews was like experiencing a perfect symphony,” says Nkosi. “His incredible knowledge and sharp mind were evident in every piece he wrote. He dedicated his entire life to journalism, often sleeping in the newsroom after chasing down sources. It was his second home.”

Despite his fiery personality and uncompromising honesty, which sometimes led to clashes with colleagues, Dlamini’s contributions to journalism were immense. Nkosi also recalls his many talents outside the newsroom, describing him as a self-taught photographer, a skilled cook, and an animal lover.

Sonia Motaung, a former colleague at City Press, admired Dlamini’s unmatched energy and tenacity. “He showed us how to be true journalists,” she says. “There was no social media to provide leads; we had to uncover stories ourselves. Mduduzi excelled at this. His passing is a tremendous loss, and he will be deeply missed.”

Tim Molobi, City Press news editor describes Dlamini as “humble, hardworking and reliable”. “That was Mduduzi during his time at City Press. He brought life to our celebrity pages with his courageous, well researched and thought-provoking stories. Journalism is poorer without him.”

SANEF extends its heartfelt condolences to Dlamini’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. His unwavering dedication to journalism leaves an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations of reporters.

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact:

Nwabisa Makunga – Chairperson (082) 555-1972

Tshamano Makhadi – Deputy Chairperson (082) 223-0621

Dr. Glenda Daniels – Secretary-General (083) 229-9708

Sbu Ngalwa – Treasurer General (073) 404-1415

Makhudu Sefara – Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134

Katy Katopodis – SANEF Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022

Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334

Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028

Sisanda Nkoala – SANEF Western Cape Convenor

Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695

Twitter: @SAEditorsForum

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.sanef.org.za

November 20 2024

SANEF Mourns the passing of Jean-Jacques Cornish

News, Obituaries

Veteran journalist, editor, radio talk-show host, and commentator on African affairs, Jean-Jacques CornishThe South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) mourns the passing of veteran journalist, editor, radio talk-show host, and commentator on African affairs, Jean-Jacques (JJ) Cornish.

Cornish, who passed away last week, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. His illustrious career began as the London Bureau Chief of the South African Press Association (SAPA) and included roles as a special correspondent to the United Nations at just 25 years old. He also edited and managed several newspapers and served as the Africa correspondent for Radio 702, for over a decade. In 2003, he transitioned to presenting ‘The Africa Report’ on 702, where his commentary and insights on the continent enriched South Africa’s public discourse.

Acting government spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa described Cornish’s death as “a significant loss” to journalism and the African narrative he worked passionately to elevate.

“The government extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Jean-Jacques Cornish, who dedicated his life to journalistic excellence, both locally and internationally. As a former London Bureau Chief of SAPA, JJ ensured South African stories were told on a global platform. His nuanced commentary on African affairs helped shape a deeper understanding of the continent’s complexities and opportunities,” said Mnukwa.

Cornish’s impact was felt deeply by his colleagues in the media. Ray White, a former colleague at 702, remembered Cornish as a quick-witted storyteller and an all-round journalist.

“JJ was my morning connection to news from the continent. His quick wit and masterful storytelling were highlights of my drive to work. I first became aware of him during my time at the SABC when I would listen to 702 for updates. Later, when I joined Eyewitness News (EWN), I had the privilege of working with this legend. I still miss those phone calls—always filled with laughter and professionalism. I hope we will continue those conversations one day, beyond the clouds,” said White.

John Robbie, a former morning talk-show host at 702, paid tribute to Cornish while marvelling at his intelligence, principles, and humour.

“JJ was a remarkable journalist with a unique gift for making news—whether complex or simple—engaging and compelling, without exaggeration or hyperbole. He loved Africa and South Africa deeply, along with all its people. He was an absolute professional. I loved him to bits,” said Robbie.

Robbie also reflected on a difficult period when management at 702 decided to replace Cornish on ‘The Africa Report’.

“It was handled very clumsily. I was against the move and was instructed not to discuss it until the announcement. I promised JJ we would share a beer someday, and I would tell him the full story. Now, that day will never come,” Robbie lamented.

SANEF Council member Amina Frense-Kasrils described Cornish as a wonderful role model with sound insights on numerous subjects.

Veteran editor Peter Fabricius said JJ was an institution in SA journalism and the doyen of South African diplomatic correspondents.

“He had been reporting SA’s foreign relations since the 1970s and could later regale his audiences with amusing ales of the exploits of foreign minister Pik Botha berating apartheid SA’s enemies at the United Nations, etc. He later covered the sometimes-unexpected foreign relations of the new ANC government for Independent Newspapers during the 1990s, including President Mandela’s reluctance to break diplomatic ties with Taiwan in favour of China, as well as summits of the Commonwealth, Non-Aligned Movement and the like as the new SA emerged from its long isolation and opened up to the world.”

“From the turn of the century JJ moved into radio journalism and with his wit and gift of the gab, he was ideal for that medium. And with his charm and eloquence he could easily have been an ambassador himself. But beneath the charm, lay a deep knowledge of empathy with Africa, strong principles, and a sympathy for the underdog. On a few occasions, for example, he clashed publicly with Moroccan diplomats because of his strong advocacy of the cause of Western Saharan independence,” Fabricius said.

SANEF sends its condolences to JJ’s family and wide circle of proud colleagues and friends. His legacy as a trailblazing journalist, storyteller, and advocate for African affairs will continue to inspire generations to come.

Note to Editors:

For more information, please contact:

Nwabisa Makunga – Chairperson (082) 555-1972

Tshamano Makhadi – Deputy Chairperson (082) 223-0621

Dr. Glenda Daniels – Secretary-General (083) 229-9708

Sbu Ngalwa – Treasurer General (073) 404-1415

Makhudu Sefara – Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134

Katy Katopodis – SANEF Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022

Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334

Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028

Sisanda Nkoala – SANEF Western Cape Convenor

Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695

Twitter: @SAEditorsForum

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.sanef.org.za