Umteteli wa Bantu
Umteteli wa Bantu was a Johannesburg-based newspaper, first published on 1 May 1920. Initially printed weekly, the publication transitioned to fortnightly in 1975, until its final issues were published in 1991. Printed in English, isiXhosa, isiZulu, and Sesotho, it served as an important platform for black intellectual and political discourse in South Africa.
History
Umteteli wa Bantu was established in 1920 by the Chamber of Mines and the Native Recruiting Corporation following the 1920 mineworkers' strike. The newspaper was created to counter the influence of Abantu Batho, an African National Congress publication. The paper was anti-communist.During the 1930s, the newspaper frequently covered legislation and proclamations affecting black South Africans. It also provided detailed reports on global events leading up to World War II, keeping its readership informed on war developments and the role of black South African soldiers.
Format and transition
Originally a weekly newspaper from 1920 to 1955, Umteteli wa Bantu transitioned to a monthly publication in 1956, then changed to a fortnightly format in 1975, until its discontinuation in 1991.1956–1975: Published monthly under the title Umteteli wa Bantu e Goli. 1975–1991: Published fortnightly under the title Mining Sun.Impact and legacy
Umteteli wa Bantu played a crucial role in shaping black intellectual thought in South Africa. The publication provided a platform for writers, poets, and activists to engage in political discourse and challenge colonial narratives.Notable contributors included:
- Nontsizi Mgqwetho, a pioneering Xhosa poet known for her political and social critiques.
- Various political commentators who debated issues of land dispossession, labor rights, and racial segregation.