PICTURE: X/ @PhilMphela
eNCA has dismissed news anchor Heidi Giokos, business anchor Rofhiwa Madzena and a senior technical staff member after they allegedly failed to declare outside business interests, as required by their employment contracts.
Also see: ‘Where’s the video?’: March and March leaders erupt over journalist’s claims
The move has sparked debate within the media industry about conflict-of-interest policies, the need for contract clarity and the growing reality of journalists relying on multiple income streams.
Undeclared side hustles cited
According to reports, the dismissals followed allegations that the employees did not disclose external work or business activities, despite contractual obligations requiring them to do so.
Heidi, one of eNCA‘s most recognisable and experienced presenters, had reportedly been awaiting the outcome of a disciplinary hearing before the broadcaster reached its decision.
During her absence, fellow journalist Tony Ndoro stepped in to present some of the programmes she previously anchored.
Neither Heidi nor Rofhiwa has publicly commented on the dismissals at the time of publication.
Also see: Mbuyiseni Ndlozi trades seats with journalist who gave his first big interview, Tracy Going
A broader debate for the media industry
Many journalists increasingly supplement their salaries through activities such as moderating events, consulting, public speaking, teaching and content creation.
Media organisations, however, often require employees to declare outside work to avoid potential conflicts of interest and to protect editorial credibility.
The eNCA dismissals have reignited questions about how these policies are interpreted and enforced, as well as whether employment contracts provide sufficient clarity on what constitutes a conflict of interest.
As conversations continue, the case has become a talking point across South Africa’s media landscape, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining journalistic integrity and allowing employees to pursue additional sources of income.
Neither eNCA nor the affected employees had announced any further developments regarding the matter at the time of publication.
Also see: From Journalist To Publicist
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp channel for content worth tapping into. Click here to join!