GOVERNMENT CONGRATULATES SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNALISTS RECOGNISED AT THE 2026 SADC MEDIA AWARDS

The South African Government congratulates two South African journalists who have been recognised for excellence in journalism at the 2026 SADC Media Awards, announced during the 46th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government in Durban.

The awards recognise outstanding journalism that contributes to greater understanding of regional integration, development and cooperation among SADC Member States.

South Africa is proud to have two journalists among the award recipients:

▪ Mr Siyabulela Duda – Second Prize Winner: Photo Category
▪ Mr Seakga Relebogile Tladi – Second Prize Winner: Radio Category

Mr Siyabulela Duda was awarded the second prize of US$1,000 for his entry captioned, “Former Deputy President of South Africa, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka congratulates newly inaugurated Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at State House in Windhoek, Namibia”.

Under the headline “Women’s Hour”, the entry highlighted how the SADC region has progressed in placing women in high-level decision-making positions, including the Presidency.

Mr. Seakga Relebogile Tladi was awarded the second prize of US$1,000 for his entry on “SADC Solidarity and Sanctions in Zimbabwe,” which analysed the impact of sanctions imposed on the Republic of Zimbabwe, a Member State of SADC, and the resilience of Zimbabwe in the face of these sanctions.

The entry featured officials from SADC Member States including Lesotho, Namibia and Zimbabwe who highlighted SADC’s solidarity with Zimbabwe and called for the lifting of the sanctions.

Government extends its warmest congratulations to Mr.’s Duda and Tladi for this important achievement and for demonstrating the professionalism, creativity and commitment that characterise the best of South African journalism.

Their recognition is also a reflection of the important role played by the media in strengthening regional cooperation and promoting greater public understanding of the SADC agenda. Through compelling visual storytelling, radio journalism and other forms of reporting, journalists help connect citizens across the region and bring the work of SADC closer to communities.

The South African Government further commends all South African journalists who continue to report on regional and continental developments with integrity, professionalism and dedication.

Government believes that a vibrant, ethical and professional media is essential to advancing informed public discourse, strengthening democracy and deepening people-to-people solidarity across the Southern African region.

The Government of South Africa wishes Mr.’s Duda and Tladi continued success in their respective careers and congratulates them once again on this well-deserved recognition at the SADC Media Awards.

Media enquiries: Nomonde Mnukwa, Acting Government Spokesperson: 083 653 7485
William Baloyi, Deputy Government Spokesperson: 083 210 6776