BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE– Eswatini’s media fraternity has received another major regional boost after veteran journalist and media development advocate Nathi Gule was re-elected as Chairperson of the Southern African Freelancers’ Association (Safrea), extending his leadership for a third consecutive term.
The re-election places an emaSwati at the helm of one of Southern Africa’s most influential professional bodies representing freelance journalists, media practitioners and communications professionals, reaffirming the confidence that members from across the region continue to have in his leadership.
Gule’s latest election follows Safrea’s Annual General Meeting held on June 24, with the newly elected office-bearers assuming their positions on June 30 under the association’s newly adopted governance structure.
His return comes as Safrea begins operating under a revised constitution that replaces the former Executive Committee structure with a Board responsible for strategic leadership. Gule said the reforms mark a new era for the association and pledged to strengthen advocacy, professional development, member engagement, fundraising and partnerships across Southern Africa.
The 2026/27 Board includes Kay Johnstone (Vice-Chair), Hush Naidoo (Treasurer), Mandi Smallhorne (Advocacy), Deryn Graham (Membership Policy and Applications), Marielle Tappan (Membership Groups), Saskia Meintjes (Professional Development), Whitemore Ngwira (Fundraising) and Antony Kaminju (Communications). An Advisory Committee comprising Paul Bedford, Solly Moeng and Adrian Galley will support the Board.
Gule thanked members for their confidence and paid tribute to previous leaders for laying the foundation for the organisation’s continued growth. Safrea also acknowledged the support of its strategic partners.
For Eswatini, Gule’s third consecutive term is a significant regional achievement that highlights the country’s growing influence in media leadership and its contribution to strengthening professional journalism across Southern Africa.
(Courtesy Pic)
