announcement of City Press’s closure marks a heartbreaking end to a 43-year legacy in South African journalism. Media24 initiated Section 189 consultations on February 27, 2026, putting around 24 staff jobs at risk after previous shifts to digital failed to sustain the brand.
Publication History
City Press, founded in 1982, became a powerhouse for in-depth reporting on politics, community issues, and black excellence. It built a massive readership through investigative scoops and influential columns that shaped national discourse.
Reasons for Closure
Media24 cited unsustainable circulation and failure to compete digitally despite integration into News24. This follows the 2024 print edition’s end, amid broader print media declines from falling ads and rising costs.
Staff Impact
Consultations with affected writers and editors began immediately, echoing past retrenchments that shocked employees. Many expressed grief over losing an iconic newsroom that nurtured top talent.
My Thoughts
As a fellow South African content creator, this hits hard—City Press amplified voices like ours in Cape Town and beyond. Prayers for the staff; may they land strong digital gigs. Let’s honor their work by boosting local journalism on our platforms