Sbu Ngalwa: At the Helm of Media Change as TAEF's New Treasurer General

In the bustling corridors of Eyewitness News (EWN), a South African beacon of journalistic integrity, Sibusiso "Sbu" Ngalwa moves with purpose. His dedication to the craft has led him to a critical junction as he steps into his new role as the Treasurer General of The Africa Editors Forum (TAEF). The forum, which signifies unity among African media practitioners, has seen a refreshing surge in leadership and a commitment to protect and enrich journalism across the continent.

Ngalwa, who has been steering the South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) as its chairperson, brings his extensive expertise to TAEF's bi-annual general meeting in Nairobi, Kenya, where the spotlight turned to sustainability and media freedom.

The meeting concluded with the election of a new executive committee poised to navigate TAEF through a demanding two-year term. "It is an honour to be elected into the leadership of this important organisation at such a crucial time in our lives as journalists," expressed a jubilant Ngalwa, emphasizing the importance of African journalists in telling the continent's dynamic narratives.

These are challenging times where the media industry is buffeted by economic strife and scrutiny, making TAEF's role more pivotal than ever. Ngalwa acknowledges the various threats that have cast a shadow over journalism and understands that safeguarding media freedom is essential. Whether it's fighting censorship or fostering independent reporting, his message is clear – the new leadership collective is ready and capable to uphold the core values of journalism.

Ngalwa's appointment is not just a personal victory but a national rejoice, with the South African government expressing fervent congratulations. Nomonde Mnukwa, the acting director-general of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), voiced confidence that Ngalwa's involvement in TAEF will magnify the forum's intentions to proclaim and nurture media freedom. She also hailed this as an extension of SANEF's dedication to upholding professionalism and journalistic principles across Africa.

TAEF has prided itself on promoting collaboration and defending the rights of editors and media organisations on the continent. This latest council formation, which includes eminent names like Durra Gambo, Zubeida Kananu, Marrianne Mujind Muland, and Zine Cherfaoui, represents the zenith of diversity in age, gender, and regional representation.

In a heartfelt nod to the past while forging a path to the future, the forum recognized the contributions of Mathatha Tsedu, a legendary figure in South African journalism and one of TAEF's founders, awarding him with a Lifetime Service to Journalism Award.

Ngalwa's tenure as treasurer general begins amidst a landscape ruled by digital transformation and an ever-pressing need for ethical journalism. His experienced hands are set to guide TAEF as a steward for not just thriving African journalism, but as a bastion for the free flow of information across a changing continent.