The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is alarmed by the looming job cuts in the media industry.
Media 24 and eNCA recently announced plans to cut hundreds of jobs, with Media 24 initially indicating 126 jobs were on the line, but on Friday news emerged that the number was likely higher. eNCA, on the other hand, said it was looking at cutting 171 jobs, more than half of the broadcaster’s 309 staff complement.
These follow on the backs of retrenchments in the past few years in other leading media institutions, from the South African Broadcasting Corporation to the Mail & Guardian and Daily Maverick as well as the recent delay in salary payments to staff at the Herald and Daily Dispatch.
At a time when the country needs a strong, independent and diverse media to hold those in power accountable and give voice to ordinary citizens, the proposed retrenchments are a devastating blow for workers, the journalism profession and our democracy.
These planned retrenchments come against the backdrop of an alarmingly high unemployment rate of 43.7%, an escalating cost of living and a stagnant economy that has not grown beyond 1% for more than a decade. Every job lost worsens the country’s unemployment crisis and weakens an already fragile economy.
South Africa’s media plays a vital role in exposing corruption, informing and educating the public, and strengthening democracy. Shrinking numbers of journalists in the newsroom mean fewer investigations, reduced coverage of communities and decreased scrutiny of those in positions of power. More than a labour issue, these retrenchments are a matter of public interest.
Journalism has played a critical role in society from challenging the oppressive apartheid regime to foregrounding the struggles of workers and exposing the heights of corruption perpetuated by those in power in democratic South Africa. Weakened newsrooms risk overturning these gains.
COSATU appreciates the dire financial pressures confronting the media industry, including decreasing advertising revenue and audience’s changing consumption patterns. However, workers should not be expected to bear the full brunt of industry changes while executives and shareholders are insulated.
For instance, Khalik Sheriff, Group CEO of eNCA’s parent company eMedia, has been pinpointed for taking home R19 million including a R10.3 million bonus in the 2025 financial year, while the lowest paid worker took home a paltry R98 000.
The Federation calls upon Media 24 and eNCA to urgently explore every possible alternative to retrenchments and preserve jobs.
Government must also recognise the strategic importance of a sustainable and diverse media sector.
A vibrant media industry is essential to democracy, social cohesion and economic development.
Measures that support quality journalism, protect media diversity and promote decent work are desperately needed. A discussion is needed on possible funding models for the media landscape given the important public education, accountability, transparency and transformation role media plays in society.
COSATU stands in solidarity with all affected workers during this difficult time. We will continue to support every effort to defend jobs, protect workers’ rights and ensure that South Africa maintains a strong, independent media sector capable of serving the public interest.
We cannot afford to lose experienced media professionals whose work strengthens accountability and gives meaning to our democracy.
Issued by COSATU