He won the politics category for the Northern Cape, Free State, North West, and Limpopo with “Masilonyana mayor allegedly caught in lie over Durban trip with state vehicle”. “This recognition is proof that through hard work, faith, and prayer, anything is possible,” he added. 

“A heartfelt thank you to OFM for giving me the platform to showcase my talent and passion.” 

As regional winners advance, all focus now turns to the national ceremony on Thursday (4/12). Photo supplied

Mosebetsi, who has worked for OFM for four years, began his tenure as an intern and secured his current position through progression within the station.

OFM News editor Morné van Rooyen described Mosebetsi as a “hard worker, reliable and dependable”. “Keke excels in political reporting. He keeps politicians in Central South Africa on their toes with a persistent quest for the truth.”

Mosebetsi now advances to the national competition. The national winners will be announced on Thursday (4/12) at an awards ceremony, where they will each receive R10,000. The overall Vodacom Journalist of the Year titleholder will get R100,000.

Vodacom’s commitment

According to Vodacom, more than 1,330 submissions were received for this year’s competition, exceeding last year’s total. A total of 178 entries were received from the central region.

Vodacom central region managing executive Evah Mthimunye confirmed the company’s commitment. “In an era of AI and digital platforms, credible journalism is crucial. Traditional media holds power accountable and ensures transparency.”

Mosebetsi and his fellow winners will compete for the top titles in South African journalism. Photo: supplied

The organisation states it’s investing more than R400 million this year to expand network infrastructure and capacity across the Free State and Northern Cape, supporting communities and bridging the digital divide.

Other regional winners

Each of the following regional category winners will receive R5,000 in prize money and will compete for the national title:

• Live reporting/ breaking news – Marti Will from Vista News for “Court hears horror details.”
• Investigative – Zinhle Kanyane with contributors Ashley Market, Tshepo Dhlamini, Tshediso Lechuba, and Sindisiwe Mpahlwa from eNCA’s Checkpoint for “Factory fault” and many others.

As regional winners advance, all focus now turns to the national ceremony on Thursday (4/12), where Mosebetsi and his fellow winners will compete for the top titles in South African journalism.

OFM News/Refilwe Bekane mvh