The Ronnie Mamoepa Foundation hosted an Inaugural Annual Lecture at Tshwane University of Technology on September 13 to honour Ronnie Mamoepa whose work in the government communications helped shape the democratic narrative in South Africa.
A panel discussion was held where Phil Molefe, a notable journalist and former executive for SABC described Mamoepa as the heartbeat of government communication.
The Deputy President of South Africa, Paul Mashatile delivered the key note address where he reflected on Mamoepa’s role in advancing democracy in the media space.
“Together with Ronnie, we fought against the oppressor and we equally stood against any form of discrimination,” Mashatile said.
Mashatile described Mamoepa as a gallant freedom fighter who dedicated all his life to the public service after serving the liberation movement.
The event also served as a moment to reflect on the current media and political landscape, the progress that has been made over the years and how it can further be improved.
“We are presently working on what we call the Medium-Term Development Plan that will encompass all the plans that the government will embark on over the next five years,” Mashatile revealed.
The issue of accountability was raised during the panel discussion when NYDA communications manager, Lwazi Khoza stated that the burden of accountability rests with communicators.
“We need to jack up communication. In the honour of Ronnie who was the dean of communication, we must fix this,” Mashatile urged.
The event ended with an award ceremony which honoured pioneers who have been making an impact.
The recipient for the Ronnie Mamoepa Dean of Communication Award was founder and chairman of Blueprint Advertising, Goovin Nchabeleng meanwhile National School of Government Professor, Busani Ngcaweni received the Ronnie Mamoepa Award of Excellence.
