For as long as Caxton’s local newspapers have existed, they have been the beating hearts of the communities they serve.

The diligent reporting by dedicated journalists plays an integral role in our democracy. After all, a self-governing society needs impartial information, devoid of any personal agendas or self-interest, in order to govern. It is impossible to make decisions without having all the information, and community journalism acts as the bridge between what happens and what people do with that information to improve their lives and the lives of others.

In Northern KwaZulu-Natal, Caxton newsrooms in Newcastle, Ladysmith, Vryheid, Dundee and Estcourt understand the vital service provided by local newspapers and are evolving in a way that will allow them to become the glue that holds our communities together, through a brand new public service offering, the Northern Natal News.
As a section in the local newspaper, the Northern Natal News, will connect readers in the region so that they may learn from each other, see common issues from different perspectives, share ideas, debate on pertinent topics, and, and in doing so, create lasting positive change in our communities.

In the face of mounting challenges, including fake news, adapting to new technology, political pressure, intimidation, and attacks on freedom of the press, the Northern Natal News will persistently ask difficult questions despite how uncomfortable it may be for people in power.

The Northern Natal News will persist in bringing issues to the forefront of decision makers, to ferret out information that the public needs to know and has a right to know, to constantly seek out the truth or to get as close to the truth as possible, to challenge power and question authority, and to tell the stories of local people such that it enriches the lives of others.

Look out for the first edition of this regional section in the next edition of your local community newspaper.
Is there an issue you would like us to investigate or do you have a story to tell? Send an email to estella@caxton.co.za

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