The Witness has published an impact report showcasing its commitment to in-depth reporting on societal issues in South Africa. The report highlights the newspaper's efforts to bring attention to critical issues, facilitate meaningful change, and hold authorities accountable. By tracking the killing of women in Ekurhuleni, The Witness provided comprehensive coverage of the case, including the discovery of multiple bodies and the response from police and government. This reporting not only informed the public but also sparked concern and discussion about the need for greater accountability.
The Witness's reporting on the Ekurhuleni killings went beyond the crime scenes, with the newspaper speaking to the family of one victim and carrying the views of forensic and policing experts. Former police profiler Dr Gerard Labuschagne was among those quoted, emphasizing the need for investigators experienced in serial murder cases. The story also highlighted a run organized by Running 4 Vibz in honor of Elizabeth "Tsontso" Moselakgomo, who was killed while out for a run. This event provided a platform for local runners to speak about women's safety and their right to exercise without fear.
The Witness also investigated unusual discharges entering the sewer system that feeds the Howick Wastewater Treatment Works. After earlier reports of a white, milky substance, the newspaper reported a blue substance flowing through a Merrivale manhole. This latest incident was linked to earlier reports of a reddish substance, putting pressure on authorities to determine whether illegal discharges were repeatedly entering the sewer system and potentially threatening the treatment process. The Witness's reporting on this issue highlighted the need for greater accountability and action to protect the environment.
A fire at the Lambert Street electricity substation in Pietermaritzburg was another major story covered by The Witness. The fire caused power outages in parts of the city, but the newspaper's reporting also exposed wider concerns about the protection of municipal infrastructure. Firefighters had to use the jaws of life to gain access while electrical cables burned inside, and the story revealed that people were living or occupying space close to the substation. This raised questions about access control, safety, and the security of critical electricity infrastructure.
The Witness also reported on the discovery of animal carcasses dumped near the Foxhill Spruit in Pietermaritzburg. The story highlighted the Keep PMB Clean Action (KPCA) Group's concerns about illegal dumping, environmental contamination, and the condition of waterways and public spaces. This reporting emphasized the need for greater action to address these issues and protect the environment. By bringing attention to these problems, The Witness aimed to drive change and hold authorities accountable.
Electoral accountability was another key area of focus for The Witness. The newspaper closely followed the dispute between the ANC and the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) over candidate submissions ahead of the local government elections. The Witness reported the IEC's rejection of the ANC's claim that a technical glitch had prevented candidate submissions and continued to cover the legal battle over attempts to place the affected candidates on the ballot. This reporting tested competing claims and gave readers a clear account of a dispute with direct consequences for voters and municipalities.
The Witness's impact report highlights the newspaper's commitment to in-depth reporting and its impact on driving change and accountability in South Africa. Through its coverage of critical issues such as the Ekurhuleni killings, environmental contamination, and electoral accountability, The Witness demonstrated its dedication to facilitating meaningful change and holding authorities accountable. The newspaper's reporting provided a platform for voices to be heard, concerns to be raised, and action to be taken.
Key points
- The Witness's reporting drove change and accountability on issues such as the Ekurhuleni killings and environmental contamination.
- The newspaper's coverage of the Lambert Street substation fire exposed wider concerns about the protection of municipal infrastructure.
- The Witness's impact report highlights its commitment to in-depth reporting and its impact on driving change and accountability in South Africa.
