We are behind almost everyone in the world in switching from analogue to digital. Our performance here is only slightly worse than our efforts to ensure universal access to cheap, fast, reliable internet. Our news media sector is facing the most extraordinary challenges just to keep afloat. To the new minister, and the department, good luck. Our democracy depends on your actions and your drive to get things done in the public interest. Finally, if in doubt, communicate, listen, engage and act. DM William Bird is the director of Media Monitoring Africa, Ashoka and a Linc Fellow.