The Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) has welcomed the appointment of Nwabisa Makunga as the new South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) chairperson. The editor of the Sowetan was appointed to the position this week at an elective annual general meeting.
GCIS Acting Director-General Nomonde Mnukwa said Makunga, who previously served as the Deputy Chairperson, has been recognised for her ability and capability in leading the organisation.
“Nwabisa’s elevation to this important responsibility is an inspiration to many women journalists and proof that the media industry is making great strides in affirming gender equality.
“ It is a further demonstration of the triumph of abilities over obstacles of women in the media sector,” she said.
Outgoing Sanef chairperson, Sbu Ngalwa, was elected as the new treasurer-general of the organisation, while Tshamano Makhadi is now the deputy chairperson.
Glenda Daniels retains her position as secretary-general, while Dunisani Ntsanwisi was re-elected as chairperson of the community sub-committee and Katy Katopodis was also re-elected to be the chairperson of the journalism wellness and safety sub-committee.
TimesLive editor Makhudu Sefara was also re-elected to lead the media freedom sub-committee; while former SABC head of news Phathiswa Magopeni continues to lead the education and training sub-committee with Nicki Gules and Asanda Ngoasheng leading the diversity and ethics sub-committees.
In the provinces, Dianne Hawker is now the convenor in Gauteng, supported by Heather Robertson, while Judy Sandison continues as convenor in KwaZulu-Natal, supported by former Isolezwe editor Slindile Khanyile.
In the Eastern Cape, Rochelle de Kock continues as convenor, with Jude Mathurine supporting her, while in the Western Cape, Sisanda Nkoala is the convenor, supported by Marenet Jordaan.
IOL