RENOWNED NEWS REPORTER TELLS HIS STORY

Born in Wilo locality, Mqanduli, in the Eastern Cape, UCR news reporter, Asanda Maliwa started his radio career at Sedibeng FM, in Gauteng, not knowing that he will have gone this far. He tells his story of how he started his career in radio, believing that it was when he was granted an opportunity that he knew he has a passion for radio.

Maliwa grew up in deep rural areas of Mqanduli, herding the stock and attending school like other boys. Little did he know that he will one day be listened in the whole of Eastern Cape province as he is used to doing a simulcast for the radio stations.  He says growing up he was told about the history of Ingquza massacre and never thought he will one day be part of telling the story, until he joined Inkonjane Community Radio in 2021 and was tasked to do a special broadcast about Ingquza Massacre on 6 June 2021.

“That was a special day to me as I know that Ingquza Hill is known country wide for its history, following the incident which led to the death of many people who were fighting for their land” he said.

Maliwa spent most of his career time as a news reporter in Sajonisi Youth Radio, which is located in Port St Johns, Eastern Cape, after a short stint at Sedibeng FM, joining the youth station in 2017. In 2021 Inkonjane Community Radio recognized his presenting skills and how he conducts himself on and off air, and he was called to join the team. However, a year later he was called at UCR, in Umtata where he is currently the newsreader and current affairs presenter. He is presenting a weekly news show called Zithethwa Sithi between 12:00 and 15:00. Maliwa describes himself as someone who likes to see those in authority accountable and transparent.

“I believe in myself in whatever I am doing and I put more effort to be successful” He added, citing the lack of resources as what could hinder one’s dedication. Maliwa says he has done almost everything to get the experience required and can be grateful to be granted an opportunity in public broadcaster.