Newzroom Afrika has poached a number of SABC News vernacular readers including the experienced and award-winning Thabile Mbhele.
Known for her voice in isiZulu bulletins, Mbhele has jumped the SABC ship together with isiXhosa bulleting reader, Lisakhanya Pepe as they were recruited by the rival news channel.
Entertainment SA is informed that the Randburg-based station is expanding its horizons as it launches its first Nguni-language news broadcast.
Expected to debut on Mzansi Wethu, DStv Channel 163, on February 27, the daily isiZulu and isiXhosa news bulletins will be anchored by seasoned broadcasters Mbhele and Pepe.
ESA has also gathered that the news team will be joined by the sign language interpreters Khethukuthula Makoatsane and Pumza Sikumba, weather service broadcasters Dicksy Mdlalose and Thabile Makapela will be in charge of isiZulu and isiXhosa bulletins respectively.
CEO Thabile Ngwato said bringing the news to more people in their home language was consistent with the channel’s aim to put viewers at the heart of the news.
“From the beginning, we’ve been clear that our purpose is to provide a reliable and trusted news service that truly reflects our country’s rich diversity, and we’re proud to offer the news in isiZulu and isiXhosa as we take another step forward on our journey,” said Ngwato, in a media statement.
“We’ve assembled a line-up of well-regarded media professionals who are excited to bring this new service to Nguni language speakers in another first for Newzroom Afrika.”
MultiChoice’s General Entertainment CEO Nomsa Philiso added that the acquisition of these news readers is something they can celebrate as it allows viewers to access a greater diversity of views.
“We are excited to provide a platform for Newzroom Afrika’s Nguni news. This will offer our viewers access to a news offering in Nguni languages and add to the diversity of news on our platform” added Philiso.
Mbhele is welcomed by the likes of anchors such as Thembekile Mrototo who headed to Twitter and posted their reactions.
@ThembiMrototo wrote:
“Welcome to the team.”
@Nompu Siziba posted:
“Enjoy the new chapter, enjoy the ride.”
@MashiyaLeon commented:
“We missed you on our screens Sis, welcome to the family.”
Main Image: Thabile Mbhele/Magzter
The post Thabile Mbhele leaves SABC, joins rival Newzroom Afrika’s new vernac desk appeared first on Entertainment SA - South African Entertainment News, Celebrity and Lifestyle Online Magazine & Entertainment.
Post a Comment