Rustenburg – The North West Media Awards, in partnership with the North-West University (NWU), will honour two iconic veterans of South African broadcasting — Dr Masego Ezekiel Matjila and Snyman Rankane — at the 2025 ceremony.
The Awards continue a proud tradition of recognising outstanding media contributors. Last year, the Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to veteran radio broadcaster Minah Pilane Huma and veteran journalist Dulile Sowage by Deputy Minister in the Presidency Hon. Kenny Morolong and the Executive Mayor of Rustenburg Cllr Shiela Mabale-Huma. This year’s ceremony will build on that legacy of celebrating excellence and preserving media heritage.
Honouring Dr Masego Ezekiel Matjila
Dr Masego Ezekiel Matjila, a distinguished SABC newsreader, has dedicated over 30 years to multilingual broadcasting and the promotion of indigenous languages. Beginning his career at Radio Setswana (later Motsweding FM), he also managed archives across several language radio services.
His remarkable skills led him to Setswana sports commentary and later prime-time news presenting in Setswana, Sesotho and Sepedi. He also served as a bulletin editor and executive producer until his retirement in 2021.
Matjila has received numerous accolades, including Best News Writer (2008) and AFCON Commentator of the Year (1996). He was recently awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the North-West University for his contributions to indigenous language development in broadcasting.
Honouring Veteran Broadcaster Snyman Rankane
Snyman Rankane, a beloved veteran broadcaster, is best known for his influential career at Motsweding FM where he hosted popular shows such as Gaabo Motho and Leretlhabetse. His commanding voice and deep connection with listeners made him a household name within the Setswana-speaking community.
Rankane continues to serve the industry as a presenter at Madibeng FM and plays a significant role in mentoring young radio broadcasters, nurturing the next generation of talent. His community involvement includes initiatives that provided winter uniforms to vulnerable families.