By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – As the world commemorates World Press Freedom Day, the South African government has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rights and safety of journalists, highlighting the crucial role media plays in a democratic society.
In a statement released on Saturday, Acting Government Spokesperson Terry Vandayar emphasized the nation’s dedication to a free and independent press, grounded in Section 16 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression and the media.
“Press freedom is not solely a media concern, but a vital democratic principle that serves and benefits all members of society. Let us all work together to create an environment where journalists can work freely and safely, and where ethical, fact-based journalism continues to thrive,” Vandayar stated.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting media freedom, emphasizing that journalists play a central role in strengthening democracy. His remarks come at a time when press freedom faces increasing global threats, including censorship, harassment, and violence.
“On this world press freedom day, it is essential to recognize the vital role that journalism and journalists play in society, particularly in South Africa where the government has made significant commitments to uphold press freedom. As we commemorate world press freedom day, it is crucial that journalists continue to do their work with integrity and courage.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency Kenny Morolong speaking on World Press Freedom Day.
The South African government calls upon all citizens to support media freedom. Let us recognize that a robust and independent press is essential to a healthy democracy. As journalists navigate the challenges of misinformation and digital disruptions their role remains indispensable in insuring that the public remains informed and engaged,” Morolong said.
According to the acting SG at African Editors Forum Sbu Ngalwa World Press Freedom Day is observed annually on 3 May, and every year there is a theme and this year’s theme is the impact of artificial intelligence on press freedom and the media.
In an interview with the media Ngalwa said the following; “This year’s theme is the impact of artificial intelligence on press freedom and the media. It’s a UNESCO theme which is about reporting the news in a brave new world. I think as the South African National Editors Forum and the African Editors Forum in all of our platforms and all our events for this year AI features quite strongly.”
South African media stakeholders used the day to raise critical concerns about the future of journalism. The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) reflected on the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in newsrooms. While acknowledging its potential to enhance journalistic efficiency, SANEF warned that unchecked AI use poses risks to editorial independence and could accelerate the spread of disinformation. The forum stressed the urgent need for ethical guidelines to regulate AI in journalism and protect the integrity of news reporting.
As South Africa joins the international community in recognizing World Press Freedom Day, the call is clear: uphold the principles of a free press, protect those who report the truth, and continue nurturing a culture of transparency and accountability in the face of new and evolving challenges.
