Amplify South Africa is driving innovation in independent media by supporting outlets that rethink journalism, embrace local languages, and explore sustainable business models. Through tailored mentoring, capacity building, and grant funding, the program helps media organizations expand audiences, diversify revenue, and strengthen their role in society.
MambaOnline, serving South Africa’s LGBTQ+ community for over 20 years, has evolved from a solo-run project into a strategically managed newsroom with a full-time Managing Editor. The platform now features a mobile-friendly website, a growing WhatsApp channel, and multiple revenue streams, while acting as an anchor for visibility and community engagement.
The Continent, launched in 2020, has reimagined news delivery by distributing its weekly newspaper via WhatsApp and email instead of a traditional website. Its reader-first approach prioritizes trust over traffic and has grown a global subscriber base of over 30,000 across 160 countries. Its seasonal publishing model helps retain talent and prevent burnout, demonstrating the value of audience-driven growth.
Likhanyile Group’s Umbele magazine is South Africa’s first isiZulu-language financial publication. Recognizing the limitations of digital access, the team launched a print edition in 2024 to reach underserved communities, increasing visibility, ad revenue, and its influence as a leading voice in inclusive economic storytelling.
Currency News transformed from a small financial newsletter into a credible media business with support from Amplify. By appointing a full-time Sales and Business Development Manager, the outlet secured steady income from sponsored content and newsletters and now reaches over 193,000 monthly website views, exemplifying the power of consistent, audience-focused journalism.
Xenor Projects, rooted in Johannesburg’s Deep South, leveraged Amplify’s mentorship to embrace analytics, rebuild its digital presence, and expand its Facebook reach to over 4.9 million. By selling “impact” rather than ad space and launching a creative agency, Xenor has diversified revenue while maintaining journalistic integrity, blending grassroots trust with digital fluency.
Launched in 2024, Amplify South Africa builds on the successes of MDIF’s South Africa Media Innovation Program (SAMIP) and continues to empower independent media by enhancing revenue models, audience engagement, and innovation, ensuring that local voices remain strong and sustainable in the country’s media ecosystem.
