As the content editor of I’solezwe lesiXhosa, I have had the profound privilege of witnessing how the art of storytelling can deeply resonate within our vibrant community.

Nestled in the breathtaking Eastern Cape — a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage — our publication has long served as a mirror reflecting the complexities of our socioeconomic dynamics.

The Eastern Cape, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, is a paradise for tourists. However, it is also the poorest province in South Africa, grappling with soaring unemployment and pervasive poverty. These pressing issues lurk in the narratives we cover, reminding us of the stark realities faced by our local communities.

Despite these challenges, our province is a fertile ground for resilience, creativity, and hope. At I’solezwe lesiXhosa, we are dedicated to sharing stories that illuminate the unique experiences and hidden gems of the Eastern Cape, showing how rural communities are developing tourism, preserving cultural heritage, and generating income.

One such enlightening tale is that of Ncumisa Somakepu’s charming Bed & Breakfast (B&B) located in the picturesque Noqhekwana village on the Wild Coast. Her B&B invites visitors to immerse themselves in rural life, enjoying freshly harvested seafood and traditional cuisine cultivated in organic gardens.

By amplifying stories like Ncumisa’s, we provide a platform for marginalised voices, highlighting their distinct perspectives and challenges. Our commitment lies in unearthing and telling the stories often overlooked — the tales of struggle and resilience emanating from the heart of our rural regions.

A poignant example resides with an elderly woman from Mcwangele who lived in a shack with her grandchildren, vulnerable to harsh weather. Our report initially shed light on her plight, but it was our follow-up story that revealed the municipality’s failure to honour its promise of providing her with a new home.

This resulted in the community rallying together in action, ultimately leading government officials to step in and construct a temporary house — significantly improving her living conditions.

Furthermore, our reporting has illuminated the struggles of communities such as Phelandaba in Molteno, where residents were confined to using malfunctioning communal taps to access the most basic necessity — running water.

Our exposé unearthed this critical issue, triggering a wave of response that ultimately granted the community access to clean water following our publication. This is the undeniable power of journalism; it doesn’t merely highlight challenges — it holds those in power accountable.

As we celebrate a momentous decade of service to our community, we take pride in our role as the watchdog of the Eastern Cape. Our mission has been unwavering: to amplify our people’s voices, tell their stories in their own language, and keep those in power accountable.

We are not just chroniclers of this breathtaking province; we are passionate storytellers — along the rugged coastline, scenic beaches, rolling hills, and majestic mountains lie untold stories waiting to be uncovered.

To honour this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to our fundamental role as storytellers. We look forward to continuing to share the vibrant and unique narratives that comprise our community, making I’solezwe lesiXhosa not just a newspaper but a crucial part of the Eastern Cape’s cultural fabric.

If you’d like to subscribe to the monthly newsletter of the Young Professionals Initiative, INMA members can do so here.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .