Community media in Mpumalanga is facing a growing crisis, with many outlets struggling to survive due to shrinking government communication budgets. This concern took centre stage during a recent stakeholder engagement session held at the Ehlanzeni District Municipality.

The session brought together community media practitioners and government communicators to address the challenges threatening the sustainability of local media. It was led by the spokesperson for the Mpumalanga Executive Council (EXCO)

Thulasizwe Thomo who acknowledged the seriousness of the situation.

Community media plays a vital role in society, particularly in rural areas such as Bushbuckridge, where platforms often publish and broadcast in local languages. These outlets provide communities with trusted, fact-checked information on local issues, giving residents a voice.

However, many practitioners say they are battling to stay afloat, citing a lack of consistent support and limited access to government advertising. Without urgent intervention, there are fears that several community media houses could shut down, leaving communities without a reliable source of local news.

Speaking at the engagement, Thomo welcomed the concerns raised by the sector and the solutions proposed by stakeholders. He emphasised the government’s recognition of the critical role played by community media and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration and improving support.

Media representatives, however, stressed that meaningful change will require more than commitments. They are calling for fair and consistent allocation of advertising, increased funding, and stronger partnerships to ensure the sector’s long-term sustainability.

If the current situation continues, the future of community media in Mpumalanga remains uncertain. The decline of these platforms would not only affect journalists and media workers but also the communities that depend on them for information, accountability, and representation.

Stakeholders agree that the ideal outcome is a thriving and sustainable community media sector that continues to inform, educate, and empower local communities.

The Mpumalanga government has reiterated its willingness to work closely with the sector, raising hopes that the engagement marks the beginning of meaningful change.