The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) hosted its highly anticipated Funders Breakfast in Johannesburg (6th May 2026), bringing together influential stakeholders, partners, broadcasters, and champions of community media in a powerful show of unity and commitment towards strengthening South Africa’s media landscape.
The gathering served as a reminder of the critical role community media continues to play in deepening democracy, amplifying marginalized voices, and ensuring access to information across the country. At a time when many independent and community media platforms face ongoing financial and operational challenges, the event highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, broadcasters, and industry stakeholders in sustaining the sector.
Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong expressed government’s sincere appreciation to the MDDA’s core funders and longstanding supporters. His address emphasized the importance of preserving media diversity and ensuring that community media remains empowered to tell authentic local stories that reflect the realities of ordinary South Africans.
Among the notable contributors acknowledged during the event was the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), represented by its Director, Nadia Bulbulia, who also delivered a message of support. The NAB’s participation further demonstrated the growing recognition of community media as a vital pillar within South Africa’s broader broadcasting ecosystem.
Speaking on behalf of the MDDA Board, Qondile Khedama reflected on the importance of partnerships in advancing the Agency’s mission. He noted that collaboration remains central to the MDDA’s ongoing efforts to support community radio stations, small commercial media, and independent publications that continue to serve communities often overlooked by mainstream media.
Deputy Director-General at the Government Communications and Information System (GCIS), Sandile Nene, revisited the origins and historical significance of the MDDA, emphasizing its continued relevance in contemporary South Africa. His remarks reinforced the need for continued institutional support for media transformation and access to information.
Adding the voice of the industry, Moses Mmutlane from the African Chamber of Media applauded the MDDA’s ongoing work and acknowledged the many champions of community media present at the event. He also commended the GCIS for advancing the new advertising policy, describing it as a significant step towards securing the sustainability and future growth of community media in South Africa.
The MDDA Funders Breakfast arrives at a critical moment for the country’s media sector. Community newspapers, radio stations, and independent publishers continue to face immense financial pressures, digital disruption, and shrinking advertising revenue. Yet despite these challenges, community media remains one of the most trusted and accessible platforms for local storytelling, public education, and civic engagement.
As discussions around media sustainability, transformation, and equitable access continue to evolve, the event underscored a collective commitment to ensuring that community media does not merely survive — but thrives.
The strong presence of government representatives, broadcasters, and industry leaders at the breakfast signaled a renewed recognition that supporting community media is not just about preserving publications and stations, but about protecting democracy, culture, language diversity, and the voices of communities across South Africa.
