Kaya 959 Reporter
The founder of the popular community TV station, Thapelo Thafeng, has died.
He reportedly died in a car accident while driving home on Thursday, 25 November.
Also Read: New spending record set at Konka Soweto
In a statement published by Soweto TV, the channel share how the visionary Thafeng led a formidable team that secured the broadcasting license for the community television station.
“Mr Thafeng and other stalwarts led the movement to bring the dream of a community television station for Soweto, which started with applying for a licence from the Independent Communications Authority (ICASA). ”
The first licence was granted in 2005 to broadcast for a month. Two years later in 2007 the station was launched as a permanent platform after obtaining a full licence from Icasa. Getting a licence was one thing, but going on air, another. ”
“It therefore took a lot of wisdom, dedication and steadfastness for Mr Thafeng, his team, and the board members to get the station off the ground raising the necessary resources, forming partnerships, and employing the right staff.”
They also shared how on the launch of the station Thafeng was quoted as saying: “The main objective of the station is to educate, inform and entertain the people of Soweto. It will be the voice of the voiceless covering issues that affect the people of Soweto.”
Soweto TV says they remain committed to continue with the legacy of Thafeng and to grow Soweto TV to beyond being the voice of the people of Soweto, but most importantly, the ambassador of Soweto to the country and the world.
Memorial Service Details
Soweto TV will be hosting a memorial service tomorrow, Wednesday 1 December.
The funeral will take place on Friday, 3 December at Salvation Army Church in White City, Soweto.



