Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong says community radio has been one of the great democratic success stories of the last three decades.
“Stations such as Radio Mafisa have helped turn the values of our Constitution into lived realities by connecting citizens to information, public services and one another,” Morolong said.
Radio Mafisa broadcasts on 93.4 FM, serving communities including Phokeng, Boitekong, Marikana, Mogwase and Tlhabane.
Speaking at the official handover of upgraded broadcasting facilities at Radio Mafisa in Rustenburg in the North West province on Friday, Morolong said the democratic government introduced a three-tier broadcasting system of community, commercial and public broadcasting which has seen over 300 community broadcasters licensed around the country.
“It is important to look at where we come from as a country. The South African media was owned almost exclusively by the white people, with a small section within that group controlling most newspapers,” Morolong said.
He said community media plays an important role in bringing people together, preserving their languages and culture and ensuring that even the most remote communities have a voice.
“There is therefore a special sense of pride for me in joining you today to celebrate another milestone that will strengthen a station that has become an integral part of the social fabric of this province.
“Today, we are not simply celebrating the handover of upgraded broadcasting facilities, we are celebrating an investment in the people of the North West and in the future of the community broadcasting sector,” he said.
Morolong told guests that the 30th anniversary of the Constitution of the Republic coincides with the three decades of Radio Mafisa’s existence.
“This is no small achievement. As such, I extend my sincere congratulations to the Board, management, staff, volunteers and listeners of Radio Mafisa. Thirty years of community broadcasting is an achievement that reflects resilience, dedication and a deep commitment to serving the public interest,” Morolong said.
Broadcasting from the heart of the Rustenburg platinum belt, the station has become much more than a broadcaster, it has become a trusted companion to thousands of listeners.
The station now boasts modern studio equipment funded by the Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) at a cost of R2 million.
“As South Africa prepares for the upcoming local government elections, this investment also comes at an important time. Community radio stations will once again play a critical role in providing accessible platforms for voter education, public debate and the dissemination of credible information, helping citizens make informed decisions while countering misinformation and promoting peaceful democratic participation,” the Deputy Minister said.
Morolong encouraged stronger partnerships between community broadcasters, municipalities, the private sector, mining companies, civil society organisations and local businesses.
“By working together, we can strengthen community media as institutions that contribute not only to communication, but also to local economic development, skills development and social cohesion,” Morolong said.
MDDA Board member Jayshree Pather said she was happy to know that funding the station would benefit of the community.
“We are excited to have helped Radio Mafisa go digital. This has ensured that the station is modern,” Pather said.
Pather said they were going to fund more community radio stations throughout the country.
Executive Mayor of Rustenburg Local Municipality Shiella Mabale-Huma said the municipality acknowledged the important role of the media in communities.
“Radio Mafisa … plays the role of keeping our communities informed and also providing educational programmes,” Mabale-Huma said.
Tshwarelo Mogapi, a local resident, told SAnews that the community relies on Radio Mafisa for information and entertainment.
“The station caters to both the old and the young. What I like about the station is that I rely on it for government news,” Mogapi said. – SAnews.gov.za
