Free and independent media was limited under South Africa’s decades-long apartheid regime and is an increasing concern under the government of embattled President Jacob Zuma.
The South African Media Innovation Program will provide funding and business support for new and existing digital media outlets that are building sustainable revenue models.
The three-year, $4 million partnership brings together Open Society Foundation of South Africa, Omidyar Network and the Media Development Investment Fund.
“The space to report clearly and credibly outside the framework of vested political and commercial interests has narrowed sharply in recent years,” says Open Society’s Fatima Hassan.
An innovation challenge will identify viable news and information products for local and underserved communities. Applications are due October 31.
