Code of Ethics

African Times Code of Ethics and Editorial Conduct

Last Updated: June 18, 2025
 Applicable to all staff, contributors, and contractors of African Times (https://atnews.co.za)

1. Introduction and Preamble

The African Times is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical journalism in South Africa. As a trusted news platform, we aim to inform, educate, and empower the public while operating with integrity, accuracy, fairness, and respect for human dignity.

This Code aligns with:

  1. Commitment to Ethical Journalism

We affirm our responsibility to report news truthfully, accurately, and in the public interest. We promote media freedom and democratic discourse while reflecting South Africa’s diversity to help redress historical imbalances. We strictly respect legal boundaries around hate speech and harmful content.

  1. Reporting Standards

Editorial staff must verify information using multiple credible sources and present facts correctly and in context. Any inaccuracies must be corrected promptly and transparently. We provide balanced coverage of all significant views and avoid bias or undue influence. We refrain from identifying victims of sexual violence or child offenders unless authorized by the editor in the public interest. Original work is mandatory, and attribution is required for all third-party content. Confidential sources are protected unless disclosure is legally required.

  1. Comment, Opinion, and Visual Media

We clearly label opinion, analysis, satire, and editorials to distinguish them from factual news. Opinions must be based on verifiable facts and not misrepresent reality. We avoid the use of manipulated, misleading, or offensive imagery or illustrations.

  1. Editorial Independence and Integrity

Staff may not accept gifts or favors that could compromise impartiality. All promotional or low-value items must be recorded and donated. All personnel must declare any personal or familial interests, such as shareholdings or affiliations, that may present a conflict. Editorial decisions are made independently, free from interference by advertisers, political entities, or stakeholders.

  1. Privacy, Consent, and Dignity

We respect individuals’ privacy and publish personal data only where public interest clearly outweighs potential harm. All personal information is handled in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act. Special care is taken when reporting on children, grieving families, or marginalised groups. We obtain informed consent before publishing private information unless publication serves a compelling public interest.

  1. Accountability and Reader Engagement

We clearly mark and correct published errors with notices that are as prominent as the original content. Complaints are addressed promptly and transparently, and we comply with decisions from the Press Council of South Africa. We welcome feedback and constructive criticism from readers to improve transparency and trust.

  1. Social Responsibility and Public Interest

The publication actively seeks voices from marginalised or underrepresented communities. We maintain zero tolerance for content that incites violence or promotes hate based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics. We prioritise stories that advance justice, accountability, and informed democratic participation.

  1. Legal Compliance

We avoid publication of defamatory statements unless legally defensible under public interest and truth. We abide by the Films and Publications Act to avoid dissemination of unlawful or harmful content. All personal and source data is secured using POPIA-compliant methods.

  1. Enforcement and Implementation

This policy applies to all African Times editorial staff, freelancers, and contributors. Mandatory training on ethics, POPIA, and legal standards is conducted annually. Violations may result in internal sanctions, suspension, or termination in line with internal HR procedures. This Code is reviewed annually or as necessary to reflect legal, social, or technological changes.

  1. Contact Information

For inquiries, feedback, or complaints, please contact the African Times Editorial Team at Social@atnews.co.za or Rampedim@atnews.co.za. You may also submit complaints to the Press Council of South Africa at https://presscouncil.org.za.

African Times