One of South Africa’s long standing publications and media houses has shut down, publishing its final edition on May 10, 2026.

City Press was founded in 1982 and owned by the major media group Media24. Since its inception, it remained a backbone for the Black middle class, a community seeking representation, dignity, and a platform to challenge the oppressive status quo. The publication was originally established by James R.A. Bailey and the South African Associated Newspapers (SAAN) under the name Golden City Press. The “Golden” was dropped the following year. Unfortunately, SAAN later withdrew from the partnership, and the newspaper faced significant financial difficulties.

The Digital Shift

In response to global digital transformation, City Press attempted to pivot by ending its print edition in December 2024. However, the digital only model failed to meet revenue and readership expectations. Consultations regarding the closure and associated job losses began in February 2026.

Today, the newspaper has officially closed its doors, raising critical questions:

• What does this mean for South African journalism?
• Is traditional reporting slowly dying, or is this merely a painful transition?
• Are we witnessing the final stages of a massive, albeit volatile, digital transformation?

A Statement from Leadership

“As a digital newsroom, incorporated into News24 after the closure of the print edition in 2025 as part of our transformation into a digitally led business, City Press did not meet our expectations,” said Minette Ferreira, CEO of Media24.

City Press employed over 25 staff members, and Media24 has stated it will attempt to limit job losses where possible. Today, South Africa bids farewell to a significant piece of its journalistic legacy.

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