The challenges and successes of indigenous language newspapers in South Africa

The case of 'Isolezwe' and 'I’solezwe lesiXhosa'

Abstract

The fall of Isolezwe newspaper from being South Africa’s second best-selling daily newspaper signals a challenging period for indigenous language newspapers in the country. Both Isolezwe and its sister newspaper I’solezwe lesiXhosa are significant as they represent a return of indigenous language newspapers in the country. These newspapers reversed a trend of inconsistency that has dogged indigenous language newspapers in South Africa, which have been characterised by opening and closing at a rapid rate. Historically, funding was identified as the biggest factor leading to the demise of indigenous language newspapers, but Isolezwe and I’solezwe lesiXhosa were founded by a media conglomerate that initially protected the newspapers from a lack of funding. Utilising qualitative research methods and a case study approach, this article examined the challenges and successes of indigenous language newspapers in South Africa, focusing on Isolezwe and I’solezwe lesiXhosa. The study investigated various aspects of the newspapers’ operation that may have had an impact on their sustainability and success. These aspects include the impact of capital funding, the style of management, revenue generation, and the impact of cultural identity on the circulation and sales of the newspapers. The findings indicate that capital funding is key, as it provides the newspapers with an appropriate foundation for success and cushions them against external financial instability such as recessions, high inflation and economic downturn or slow economic growth. It was also found that the management style of the newspaper and their cultural identity have an impact on their operations.