AIP Parliamentary Presentation 2025

The Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) recently presented to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee, highlighting the vital role of community media in South Africa. AIP represents 178 independent publications, with a combined monthly readership of over 7 million, publishing in all 11 official languages. The presentation underscored the historical significance of black-owned publications, the challenges grassroots media face, and the sustainability initiatives AIP is championing to ensure the future of ethical and independent journalism. To access the presentation, please click on the link here.

Our Chairperson gave a presentation on the impact and importance of independent community publishers, while our Executive Director provided insights into sustainability solutions for the sector. A key focus was thus on the Digital News Transformation Fund (DNTF), a ground-breaking R114 million initiative, in partnership with Google, aimed at supporting independent publishers in their digital transformation journey. The fund offers project-based financial support to enhance digital operations, audience engagement, and long-term sustainability. To access the presentation, please click on the link here.

For more information on the DNTF, please click the link here: https://dntfund.org.za/

Finally, AIP organised two panels one on indigenous languages and the second on advertising, chaired by the Executive Director of the Press Council, Phathiswa Magopeni and our Executive Director, respectively.