06 December 2023
The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) is appreciative of the fruitful collaboration with the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) in a series of nationwide training seminars aimed at equipping journalists with comprehensive knowledge of the recent amendments to the Electoral Act, and other related topics.
The joint initiative, spanning eight weeks from October to November, witnessed the convergence of over 650 journalists across various media platforms, including print, online, and broadcasting. Their hunger for knowledge, their eagerness to understand the intricacies of the recent electoral amendments, and their dedication to shaping an enlightened electorate were palpable throughout the seminars.
SANEF believes that informed journalism plays a pivotal role in promoting a vibrant and participatory democracy.
The training seminars, strategically designed in partnership with the IEC, delved into the intricacies of the recent amendments to the Electoral Act, highlighting their impact on communities and the importance for citizens to exercise their vote judiciously. Addressing potential challenges, particularly the issue of spoiled votes, was one of the critical focal points, ensuring that citizens are well-informed when exercising their democratic rights.
A key component of the training program was the exploration of the media’s role as a catalyst in voter education initiatives. Participants engaged in discussions on the responsibility of the media in disseminating accurate information, thus empowering communities to make informed electoral decisions.
SANEF acknowledges the invaluable contribution of Media Monitoring Africa, a key partner in this initiative. Their collaboration with the IEC in combating disinformation and misinformation has fortified the overall effectiveness of the training seminars.
SANEF extends its gratitude to the IEC for its commitment to the project. The presence of IEC experts throughout the seminars ensured a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects of the recent electoral amendments. Their dedication to answering questions from journalists further enriched the learning experience.
Importantly, SANEF thanks the resolute journalists who participated in the t training seminars across the country. We embarked on a journey of knowledge-sharing that reached every corner of our diverse nation. This was not just a collaboration; it was a testament to the strength of collective efforts in nurturing an informed and engaged citizenry.
To our fellow journalists, we urge you to wear your roles as custodians of truth with pride. Your pens, cameras, and microphones are not just tools; they are instruments of democracy. SANEF calls upon journalists to uphold the principles of fairness, accuracy, and balance in their reporting. We urge Media houses to prioritise the craft of responsible journalism, recognising the pivotal role they play in serving the nation.
We look forward to continued collaboration with the IEC and other partners to strengthen the democratic fabric of South Africa through informed and responsible journalism.
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 through fighting for media freedom, writing policy submissions, research, and education and training programmes. SANEF is not a union.
For more information please contact:
Sbu Ngalwa – SANEF Chairperson (073) 404-1415
Nwabisa Makunga – SANEF Deputy Chairperson (082) 555-1972
Prof Glenda Daniels – SANEF Secretary-General (083) 229-9708
Tshamano Makhadi – Treasurer-General (082) 223 0621
Makhudu Sefara – SANEF Media Freedom Chair (079) 177-2134
Katy Katopodis – SANEF Wellness and Safety Chair (082) 805-7022
Judy Sandison – SANEF KZN Convenor (082) 571-3334
Heather Robertson – SANEF Gauteng Convenor (083) 3085618
Rochelle De Kock – SANEF Eastern Cape Convenor (072) 969-8028
Asanda Ngoasheng – SANEF Western Cape Convenor (082) 610 9374
Reggy Moalusi – SANEF Executive Director (071) 682-3695
Twitter: @SAEditorsForum
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sanef.org.za