Zibonele FM tunes into new chapter with proposed discounted City-land sale

11 November 2024

City Council recently provided an in-principal approval of the sale of a City property at a discounted rate in Khayelitsha to community broadcaster, Zibonele FM. This matter will now follow due process to conclude the details of the sale agreement, which will then be tabled at Council for final approval.

Council’s in-principal approval follows an application by the community radio station Zibonele FM to purchase the property it is currently leasing from the City and the land next to it which they are also using.
 
‘Local radio is essential for residents because it provides a platform for sharing stories and news, promoting local initiatives, and fostering community. This is especially the case for Zibonele FM whose programmes are shaping informative discussions for their listeners and keeping residents updated on what is happening in their communities,’ said Alderman James Vos, the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.

Zibonele FM took to the airwaves in 1993, starting its operations inside a shipping container. In 1995, it became the first official community radio station in South Africa after obtaining its broadcasting licence.
 
‘The Mayoral Committee proposes a discount on the sale, recognising the station’s social impact and community programmes. I’m pleased to confirm this has been well received, and I’ll continue working with the Property Transactions team to move it forward. The next step will be for the details related to the sale to be ironed out and finalised, which will then be tabled at Council again for final approval,’ said Alderman Vos.

‘We are delighted to help make Zibonele FM the owners of the land from which they operate, allowing them to invest in and expand their operations even more. They are one of our city’s most cherished radio stations and a real pillar of the Khayelitsha community and beyond. We wish them a bright broadcasting future as owners of their property,’ said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.
 
Importantly, the approval of this sale will provide the station with stability to grow, expanding services, creating jobs, and supporting local businesses. This is especially the case for this radio station who provides an on-site accredited Radio Production Course for learners.

By adopting this proposal, we are not just approving a property sale; we are investing in a resource that uplifts and unites our residents.

End

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office