MDDA Delegation Highlights Community Media Role in Democracy and Access to Information

As part of its mandate to promote media development and diversity, the MDDA participated in an exhibition supporting the Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Khumbudzo Ntshavheni (MP), and the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Kenny Morolong (MP), as they presented the GCIS Budget Vote and outlined government priorities and plans for the year ahead. The exhibition provided a valuable platform to showcase the transformative work of community media organisations and their contribution to strengthening democracy, social cohesion, and access to information.

The MDDA delegation was led by Board Member Mr Philly Moilwa, chief executive officer Ms Shoeshoe Qhu, and chief financial officer Ms Tintswalo Baadjie. Representing the Communications and Stakeholder Relations Unit at the exhibition was Ms Margaret Ndawonde, accompanied by several community media projects from the broadcasting, print, and digital sectors.

Showcasing community media excellence

The exhibition featured four diverse community media organisations from the Western Cape, each demonstrating the important role community media continues to play in informing, educating, and empowering citizens.

Cape Community FM (CCFM)

Cape Community FM (CCFM), a newly approved MDDA-funded project from the 2025/26 Call for Grant Funding Applications, is a Christian community radio station based in Muizenberg, Cape Town. Broadcasting on 107.5 FM and 96.7 FM, the station serves communities across the Cape Metropolitan area and the Fish Hoek Valley.

Established in 1993 as Radio Fish Hoek by the Fish Hoek Baptist Church, CCFM has grown into a trusted source of information, inspiration, and entertainment. Broadcasting primarily in English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa, the station combines contemporary Christian music, talk shows, interviews, news, weather, and traffic updates. Guided by its slogan, “Changing Lives for Good,” CCFM remains committed to positively impacting lives through faith-based broadcasting and community engagement.

Suiderpers News

Suiderpers News, also approved during the MDDA’s 2025/26 funding cycle, is a bilingual Afrikaans and English newspaper serving the Overberg region, particularly the Cape Agulhas Municipality.

Founded in 1928, Suiderpers has remained an independent publication deeply rooted in the cultural heritage, traditions, and social realities of the Overberg community. Distributed free of charge through libraries, schools, old-age homes, and selected community venues, the newspaper ensures broad access to reliable local news and information.

The publication covers community affairs, culture, sport, and social issues, while promoting literacy and quality journalism through book-related initiatives, educational content, and engaging community-focused features. Its longstanding commitment to serving readers rather than advertisers has earned it credibility and trust across diverse communities.