By Staff Reporter
In a strategic move aimed at strengthening public communication within South Africa’s healthcare sector, Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi announced the appointment of Mr Sello Lediga as the new Media Liaison Officer and Spokesperson for the Department of Health. Lediga, a highly respected political commentator and accomplished author, officially began his role on Friday, 1 November 2024. He will oversee communications between the Department and the media, helping to ensure that the public has access to essential health information and updates on government health policies.
Dr Motsoaledi expressed his excitement about Lediga joining the Department, highlighting his background as a significant asset. “I am pleased to welcome Lediga to our team. His extensive experience in political communications and journalism will be instrumental in improving access to vital health information among our stakeholders,” stated Dr Motsoaledi. “We are confident that with Mr Lediga’s expertise, the Department will be well-equipped to deliver accurate, timely, and relevant health information to South Africans.” Dr Motsoaledi also emphasised that Lediga will work closely with the Department’s media team and collaborate with other government communicators to enhance public awareness of health issues.
About Sello Lediga
Sello Lediga is a respected thought leader on current affairs, known for his incisive political analyses and his commitment to public engagement on key social and political issues. With over 30 years of experience as a political columnist, he has become a prominent voice on South African politics and has earned a reputation for balanced and well-informed commentary across media platforms. His insights on contemporary issues have been instrumental in fostering public debate, making him one of the most respected media figures in the country.
In addition to his media work, Mr Lediga is also an accomplished author who has published three influential books exploring South Africa’s political history and transitions. His latest book, Dodging the Civil War Bullet: Nelson Mandela and South Africa’s Transition from Apartheid to Democracy, underscores his dedication to documenting the nation’s journey toward peace and democracy. The book, which features a Foreword by former President Kgalema Motlanthe, offers a compelling examination of how South Africa narrowly avoided civil conflict during its transition to democracy, with a focus on Nelson Mandela’s leadership and vision. This publication was celebrated with a high-profile launch event at Constitution Hill, near Nelson Mandela’s former prison cell. Hosted by former Deputy President Baleka Mbete, the event drew dignitaries and prominent figures from across the political spectrum, underscoring Lediga’s reputation as a bridge-builder and thought leader. The book was published by Brandhill Africa.
Lediga’s contributions to South African discourse, both as a writer and media professional, make him exceptionally well-suited for his role as Media Liaison Officer. His deep knowledge of government communications and the media landscape, paired with his reputation for integrity and clarity, will be invaluable assets to the Department of Health as it seeks to inform and engage the public on critical health issues.
*** Sello Lediga and Kgalema Motlanthe posed for a photo after their meeting at the latter’s office ***
Brandhill Africa congratulates Sello Lediga
Brandhill Africa, a leading brand management and communications firm with a mission to elevate African brands globally, congratulated Lediga on his new appointment. The company, known for its work in public relations, event management, and brand-building, lauded Lediga’s dedication to public service and his role as an influential thought leader.
“Brandhill Africa congratulates Sello Lediga on his well-deserved appointment as Media Liaison Officer for the Department of Health. This position is a testament to his remarkable career, his deep commitment to public discourse, and his lasting impact on South African media,” said Saul Molobi, Group CEO and Chairman of Brandhill Africa. “We are confident that Lediga will excel in this role, bringing his expertise and dedication to fostering transparent, effective communication for the Department of Health and the South African public.”
Brandhill Africa, which has long been a proponent of fostering strong government-media relations, recognises the value of skilled professionals like Lediga in advancing public understanding of key issues. His appointment aligns with the firm’s own mission of supporting initiatives that drive open dialogue and community engagement, values that are essential to building a well-informed and resilient society.
*** Sello Lediga flanked by Baleka Mbete, former Deputy President of South Africa; and Panyaza Lesufi, Premier of Gauteng Province ***