Furthermore, there have been policy developments - including the White Paper on Communications and Digital Technologies and proposals to address online harms, including platform accountability and faster detection and removal of disinformation. Partnerships with organisations such as Moxii (formerly Media Monitoring Africa) and Real411, among other entities further expand rapid‑response and monitoring capabilities. Safeguarding democracy requires the involvement of all stakeholders: government, electoral bodies, technology companies, civil society, community media, youth networks, and citizens themselves. Through public engagement, transparent communication, coordinated action, and accessible digital tools - such as zero‑rated portals allowing voters to verify information - South Africa is building a resilient “Democracy Shield” that protects the integrity of the vote. South Africa’s democracy is further strengthened by legislation that upholds information integrity and enforces accountability. Key instruments such as the Cybercrimes Act and the Electoral Code of Conduct provide clear legal measures to ensure that individuals who intentionally disseminate harmful digital disinformation face the appropriate consequences.

The DBE, through the School Safety Directorate, in collaboration with Moxii Africa (formerly known as Media Monitoring Africa) and the Free State Education Department, launched the Web Rangers Programme at Kagisho Comprehensive Secondary School in Mangaung Bloemfontein from 10 to 11 April 2026. The Web Rangers Programme is a learner-led initiative designed to empower learners to become champions of safe and responsible internet use. It equips participants with essential skills to create awareness campaigns that promote positive online behaviour. By focusing on youth leadership, the programme encourages learners to take responsibility for their digital presence while influencing their peers to do the same. It forms part of the DBE’s broader Online Safety Integrated Programme for schools.

This came after industry stakeholders, including eMedia, Media Monitoring Africa, and the SOS Public Broadcasting Coalition, moved to block the switch-off in court. “Had it gone ahead as planned, community broadcasters, E-tv and the SABC would have faced an existential crisis,” the SOS Coalition said at the time. “In addition, millions of the most vulnerable people living in South Africa would have been denied their constitutional and human rights to access and receive news and information.”