ZAOwnership & classification
Founded: 1985
Ownership
The Mail & Guardian is a South African weekly newspaper and website published by M&G Media in Johannesburg. It began in 1985 as the Weekly Mail, founded by journalists after the closure of the Rand Daily Mail and Sunday Express. From 2017 a majority stake was held by the New York-based non-profit Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF); in 2024 MDIF sold that majority to chairperson Hoosain Karjieker and director Thembisa Fakude, with a staff share trust and original founders holding minority stakes.
Funding
It is funded overwhelmingly through commercial activity — advertising, subscriptions and digital revenue — which it says provides more than 90% of its income, supplemented historically by impact-investor backing from MDIF.
Affiliation & stance
The Mail & Guardian is privately owned by its managers, a staff trust and founders with no party or state control, which is why it is classified INDEPENDENT. It has a long record of independent investigative journalism and a broadly centre-left, liberal editorial stance, but no partisan ownership.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Lean Progressivebased on 221
83/100
Factual
76/100
Objective
265
Articles
265
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Wicknell Chivayo’s gifts: The price of political influence
The article discusses the death of Wicknell Chivayo and examines his significant philanthropy within Zimbabwe's political landscape. It highlights the connections between his charitable activities and broader issues of political influence, patronage, and public procurement. The piece suggests that his contributions may have been intertwined with political power structures, raising questions about the role of wealth and influence in governance. While the article does not provide specific details about the circumstances of his death, it focuses on the implications of his legacy in relation to political dynamics in Zimbabwe.
Petrol price to hit record R30.25 a litre in Gauteng from Wednesday
Petrol prices in Gauteng, South Africa, are set to reach a new high of R30.25 per litre for 95 unleaded fuel, according to the Central Energy Fund. This follows significant price hikes, marking a sharp increase in fuel costs for motorists. The announcement highlights growing concerns over inflation and rising living expenses for consumers. While the article notes the price increase, it does not provide detailed information on the reasons behind the hike or potential impacts on the economy.
Orlando Pirates seeks to freeze R20.2m linked to former finance manager
Orlando Pirates, a South African football club, has applied to the Johannesburg High Court to freeze R20.2 million in four bank accounts associated with its former finance manager, Darryl Joselowsky. The request follows an internal investigation into unauthorized financial transactions. The club alleges that Joselowsky engaged in improper activities, though specific details remain undisclosed. The court has been asked to consider the urgency of the matter, which suggests potential legal implications for the former employee.
Dlamini-Zuma, Mbalula set to take stand over ANC vote-buying allegations
Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, former chairperson of the African National Congress (ANC), and current ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula are set to provide oral testimony in a defamation case related to allegations of vote-buying. The Johannesburg High Court has mandated that the dispute be resolved through oral evidence rather than written submissions. This legal proceeding centers on claims made by Dlamini-Zuma against Mbalula regarding alleged misconduct during the ANC's internal processes. The case highlights tensions within the ANC leadership and raises questions about the integrity of the party's electoral procedures. Both parties have been involved in ongoing disputes over governance and power dynamics within the organization.
Transnet procurement officials warned of Richards Bay equipment irregularities, documents show
Internal documents indicate that Transnet procurement officials were previously informed about idle equipment and contract irregularities at Richards Bay. These issues were identified prior to the auditor-general's report highlighting over R100 million in wasteful expenditure. The documents suggest there was awareness within Transnet of potential mismanagement or inefficiencies in procurement processes at the Richards Bay facility. The situation underscores concerns about transparency and accountability in public sector spending.
The ghost in the bureaucracy: When code and algorithms harm citizens
The article discusses the growing risks associated with the automation of public services in African governments, highlighting concerns over algorithmic errors and biases that negatively impact citizens. It argues that state accountability cannot be delegated to private software vendors, emphasizing the need for oversight and responsibility in the implementation of automated systems. The piece raises important questions about the ethical implications of relying on technology for critical public functions and calls for greater transparency and regulation.
Would homegrown LEN cost more? Why SA should still make the HIV prevention jab
The article discusses South Africa's plan to manufacture the HIV prevention injection lenacapavir domestically. It highlights the debate among experts regarding the balance between achieving rapid and affordable access to the drug and establishing long-term regional production capabilities. The focus is on the potential costs and benefits of local manufacturing versus importing the medication. The discussion emphasizes the importance of ensuring accessible healthcare solutions while considering economic and logistical factors.
Tributes pour in for Babsy Mlangeni who died at age 83
Tributes are being paid to Babsy Mlangeni, a renowned South African singer, guitarist, and songwriter, who has died at the age of 83 after a brief illness. The article highlights the widespread recognition of his contributions to South African music and culture. While the piece focuses on celebrating his life and legacy, it does not delve into any political affiliations or controversies associated with Mlangeni. The tone remains respectful and commemorative, emphasizing his artistic impact rather than any political stance.
Toyota's Land Cruiser FJ is unapologetic, but underpowered
Toyota has released a new version of its Land Cruiser FJ model, which features rugged retro styling and true off-road capabilities priced at R800,000. However, concerns have been raised regarding the vehicle's underpowered petrol engine and limitations in payload capacity.
ANC calls on its ancestors to rescue its fortunes
The South African ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), has called upon its historical leaders and ancestors for guidance and forgiveness ahead of upcoming elections. This appeal was made by ANC First Deputy Secretary-General Nomvula Mokonyane, who emphasized the need for spiritual support during this politically significant period. The move reflects a common strategy among political parties to invoke cultural and historical narratives for legitimacy and morale. While the statement does not directly address specific policies or controversies, it underscores the emotional and symbolic weight of ancestral connections within the ANC leadership.
Call for nominations to serve on the Sol Plaatje University council
The Mail & Guardian has published a call for nominations to serve on the council of Sol Plaatje University (SPU), which was established in 2013 and began offering academic programs in 2014. The university operates in the Northern Cape region and contributes to both local and national education. The University Council is responsible for governing the institution according to the Higher Education Act of 1997 and the SPU Institutional Statute. The article invites individuals to apply for council positions, emphasizing the importance of the role in guiding the university's direction.
Black Friday Deals That Travel From Joburg to Auckland
The article highlights opportunities for South African consumers during Black Friday, focusing on deals related to travel, data, money transfers, streaming services, and entertainment. It suggests that individuals planning trips or sending money to relatives in New Zealand can benefit from special offers available during this shopping event. The piece aims to guide readers toward maximizing savings on various services, emphasizing the cross-border nature of some deals between South Africa and New Zealand.
The extortionists along Moloto Road
The article reports on findings from the Madlanga Commission, which uncovered WhatsApp messages revealing an alleged extortion scheme operated by Mpumalanga taxi bosses Joe Sibanyoni and Bafana Sindane. The scheme targeted contractors along Moloto Road, suggesting a pattern of financial coercion. The revelations come from internal communications that were made public during the commission’s investigation. The case highlights ongoing issues of corruption and organized crime within local transportation networks. The article does not provide further details on legal actions or responses from authorities.