Introduction
Deputy Minister Morolong delivered a powerful message on the role of the media in shaping South Africa’s democracy during the North West Media Awards held in Rustenburg on Monday night.
He told journalists, government communicators and industry leaders that he chose to attend the awards instead of the President’s final dinner of the year because the work of the media remains central to the health of the nation’s democracy.
Commitments and Progress
Morolong reminded attendees that he had made several commitments during last year’s ceremony. He said he was proud to announce that he has now exceeded those undertakings, particularly in strengthening government support for community media.
Regional and Global Media Significance
The awards followed the SADC Media Awards hosted earlier in the day where the 2026 competition was launched. Morolong praised journalists across Southern Africa for their insightful coverage of the historic G20 Leaders Summit held on African soil. He said such reporting ensured that citizens understood the significance of the summit and amplified Africa’s voice on the world stage.
Honouring Storytellers
The Deputy Minister described local journalists as storytellers, truth seekers and guardians of the province’s shared narrative. He said the North West Media Awards have become a platform that honours excellence in investigative reporting, sport, photography, broadcasting and community journalism, including the prestigious Polokotau investigative news story of the year.
The Role of Community Media
Morolong highlighted the resilience of community media which often operate with limited resources yet remain the heartbeat of the communities they serve. He said the awards reclaim African stories and strengthen a media sector that shapes public dialogue and understanding.
Government Policy and Support
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to media freedom, diversity and sustainability. Cabinet has approved a new communication policy that directs government departments to ring fence between three and five percent of their budgets for communication. The policy also requires that thirty percent of all government advertising be spent on community and small commercial media.
He added that GCIS will begin appointing a panel of community media agencies from January 2025.
A Call for Strong Media
Morolong said South Africa needs a strong and independent media sector that reports with clarity and fairness. He praised journalists who speak truth to power and uncover injustice, saying their work strengthens the foundations of democracy.
Closing Message
He said the North West Media Awards inspire new storytellers and elevate ethical journalism across the province. Morolong called media practitioners architects of a better tomorrow whose work informs, educates and empowers communities every day.