The Witness recently celebrated its 180th anniversary, cementing its status as one of South Africa’s oldest continuously published newspapers while navigating a volatile digital landscape.

Founded in 1846 by David Dale Buchanan, the publication has transitioned from a colonial weekly to a digital-era survivor. Editor Riquadeu Jacobs says the need for credible journalism has increased amid rapid changes driven by AI and shifting audience behaviour.

Jacobs says the rise of AI-driven search tools and social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels and Threads is altering news consumption, with audiences often encountering fragmented content rather than verified reports.

This shift, coupled with the spread of misinformation, is placing traditional journalism under pressure. Despite these challenges, the newspaper is involved in national discussions with the Competition Commission and technology companies to ensure fair compensation for news content.

“Journalism should be recognised not only as a commercial enterprise but as a public good essential to democracy,” says Jacobs.

Jacobs, who began his career at The Witness in 1991, reflected on the newspaper’s role during periods of political violence in KZN, when journalists documented events under dangerous conditions. He says the publication’s strength is rooted in its people, from reporters to distributors.

“Over nearly two centuries, The Witness has documented the life of a city and a province,” he says. “The 180-year milestone is a reminder of what it must continue to do – to report, to question and to bear witness.”

Originally founded as The Natal Witness in Pietermaritzburg, the paper began on a hand-operated press. It has since covered global and local events, from world wars to community life in the Midlands.

History and human stories

The paper’s legacy includes figures such as Trevor Moodley, the first Indian reporter for The Witness, and Govindasamy Vengatas David, who worked in the cutting machine department for 43 years. David taught his descendants to view newspapers as gifts of knowledge.

The public can view a timeline of memorable events from the past 18 decades and read further tributes on the anniversary website, Witness180.co.za.

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.