The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) is working to revolutionize the South African media landscape. On August 10, 2023, the MDDA Board Chairperson, Professor Hlengani Mathebula, unveiled state-of-the-art broadcast studios at Inanda 88.4 FM. Simultaneously, the MDDA launched two community media print projects – Ulwazi magazine and UniQ magazine – to promote development and diversity in community and small commercial media. These three projects are based in the KwaZulu-Natal province.
Inanda 88.4 FM: Celebrating South African Music and Community
Inanda 88.4 FM is a community radio station that broadcasts 60% IsiZulu and 40% English. Established in 2003, it officially started airing in 2009 as part of the INK (Inanda, Ntuzuma, Kwa-Mashu) urban renewal program. With a programming format of 60% content and 40% music, the station celebrates South African music across genres, making up 60% of the playlist and catering to diverse audiences.
UniQ Magazine: Empowering LGBTIQI+ Communities
UniQ magazine is an online publication founded in March 2014 by four women with vast media industry experience. Targeting the LGBTIQI+ community in KZN, the 100% women-owned magazine aims to empower lesbian, queer women, trans women, and non-binary people in sharing culture, stories, and educating on homosexuality. Published in 70% English and 30% isiZulu, the magazine contributes to international human rights debates.
Ulwazi Magazine: Informing and Inspiring High School Students
Ulwazi magazine is a monthly student publication targeting high school teenagers in Umlazi township. It offers informative and inspirational content using interactive methods to engage its audience. Addressing topics specific to high school learners and news relevant to them, Ulwazi magazine is available in hard copy and online, enabling young people beyond the targeted demographic to access its content easily.
MDDA’s Commitment to Diversity and Access to Information
MDDA Acting CEO, Ms. Nomkhosi Peter, congratulated the projects that received funding during the 2022/23 financial year. She highlighted the agency’s commitment to promoting diversity and access to information through grant funding and non-financial support for historically disadvantaged communities, diminished indigenous languages, and cultural groups. Through Inanda 88.4 FM, UniQ, and Ulwazi magazines, the MDDA is transforming the media landscape in terms of access, ownership, control, and content diversity.
Fostering Inclusivity and Social Cohesion
The launch event held on August 10, 2023, at Inanda Seminary Clinic, Port 1, Inanda Glebe, Inanda, 4039, was open to members of the media. The success of these projects underscores the importance of media diversity in fostering social inclusion and providing platforms for marginalized and underrepresented communities to express their views, stories, and experiences. By paving the way for an inclusive media environment, the MDDA is championing the cause of a more egalitarian society.
Impact on Local Communities
As these ventures take off, it is essential to recognize the impact they will have on local communities. Inanda 88.4 FM, with its wide-ranging programming, will provide a crucial link to grassroots issues and strengthen community bonds. Similarly, UniQ and Ulwazi magazines will empower marginalized groups by giving them a voice and enabling them to connect with each other. In doing so, the MDDA is not only enhancing media diversity but also fostering social cohesion and cultural exchange in South Africa.
