MEDIA STATEMENT
Pretoria, Friday, 25 October 2024 – Public Interest SA proudly hosted the inaugural Whistleblowers Summit 2024 yesterday at the Maslow Time Square in Menlyn, Pretoria. The landmark event brought together distinguished leaders from the public and private sectors, whistleblowers, legal experts, academics, journalists, and civil society advocates to explore and advance protections, ethical imperatives, and the collective duty to uphold integrity in South Africa. The summit, moderated by the venerated Lukhona Mnguni, provided a platform for thought-provoking dialogue and knowledge-sharing through a series of impactful sessions and was marked by remarkable audience engagement.
The summit opened with a keynote address by Professor Bonang Mohale, whose insightful remarks highlighted the critical role of whistleblowers in advancing accountability, transparency, and justice. His call for a culture that protects and empowers whistleblowers resonated deeply with attendees, setting the stage for a day of active dialogue on fostering an ethical governance landscape in South Africa.
Session Highlights
1. Corporate Governance and Fostering Accountability
Panellists including Dr Mteto Nyati, Eskom Chairperson, Mr Vhonani Chauke, Deputy Auditor General SA, Prof. Parmi Natesan, CEO of the Institute of Directors in South Africa (IODSA), and Mr Chris Maroleng, founder and CEO of Africa 360 Advisory delivered compelling analyses on governance reforms. They emphasised the urgent need for robust corporate accountability mechanisms and the role of whistleblowers as essential contributors to organisational integrity. The session highlighted the imperative for leaders to create environments where transparency is prioritised and ethical behaviour rewarded. Audience members actively engaged with panellists, sharing perspectives and raising critical questions about the current corporate governance landscape.
2. Whistleblowing’s Ethical Imperative
This session, led by Advocate Kholeka Gcaleka, Public Protector SA, and Dr Ugljêa Radulovic, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Johannesburg delved into the ethical dimensions of whistleblowing. Panellists explored how ethical principles drive whistleblowers to act in the face of wrongdoing and discussed ways to build systems that honour and support these brave individuals. Their insights underscored the need for a cultural shift toward recognising whistleblowers as integral to a functioning democracy. The audience engaged passionately, reflecting on personal experiences and highlighting the ethical challenges they encounter in advocating for accountability.
3. Nurturing Whistleblower Resilience
Featuring Ms Bianca Goodson, whistleblower and CEO of Millennial Advisory, and Dr Liezl Groenewald, CEO of The Ethics Institute, this panel addressed the emotional and psychological toll faced by whistleblowers. The discussion provided valuable insights into the resilience-building resources necessary to support individuals who come forward to expose corruption. Panellists underscored the role of mental health services, legal protection, and community support. Attendees participated in an interactive Q&A, sharing their own experiences and seeking guidance on fostering resilience amidst adversity.
4. Whistleblowing Synergy with Investigative Journalism
Investigative journalist Mr Govan Whittles, Carteblanche TV and Mr Jeff Wicks, News24, led this discussion on the critical relationship between whistleblowers and investigative journalism. The panel emphasized how investigative journalists amplify whistleblowers' voices and protect the public interest. Panellists examined challenges faced by journalists working with whistleblowers, stressing the importance of trust and confidentiality. Audience members, including several whistleblowers, actively contributed to the conversation, exploring avenues for collaboration and strengthening protections for sources.
Throughout the summit, audience engagement was outstanding, with attendees participating in Q&A sessions, contributing ideas, and networking to build a unified community of advocates committed to advancing ethical governance and whistleblower protection. The diversity of voices and perspectives created a dynamic atmosphere, fostering a sense of shared purpose among attendees and speakers alike.
Public Interest SA chairperson, Tebogo Khaas, expressed appreciation for the insights shared by all participants, stating, “The success of our inaugural Whistleblowers Summit reflects the dedication of South Africans to uphold justice and integrity. Together, we have taken a significant step toward building a society where whistleblowers are celebrated and protected for their courage.”
The Whistleblowers Summit 2024 has set a precedent for ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and action in South Africa. Public Interest SA looks forward to continued partnerships and initiatives that will enhance protections for whistleblowers and promote transparency at all levels of governance.
Acknowledgements
Public Interest SA extends its sincere gratitude to Eskom Holdings for their unwavering support. The Whistleblowers Awards & Summit is a fitting complement to Eskom’s anti-corruption initiatives, reflecting its strong commitment to safeguarding and empowering those who bravely expose misconduct.
Public Interest South Africa acknowledges the members of the Whistleblower Support Platform for Reform (WSPR), a multi-stakeholder partnership spearheaded by the German Agency For International Cooperation (GIZ) of which it (Public Interest SA) of which it (Public Interest SA) is also a member, for its technical, conceptual and strategic communications support throughout the development process of this initiative.
Public Interest South Africa also acknowledges the technical assistance support from the European Union through the Enhancing Accountability programme. The generous support for this event aligns with the programme's objectives of investing in organisations that are fighting corruption by improving transparency and accountability in the public and private sectors in South Africa.
Media Contact:
Bagaetsho Oteng
Public Interest SA
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