The study provides an overview of relevant legislation and policy in South Africa, pre- and post-1994, as well as a review of international research that reveals global trends in small media development. It sketches the distribution of the sector in South Africa, revealing the topography of service providers and key stakeholders. The report identifies the interests that are common to small independent and community media groupings and examines ways in which the sustainability of these organisations can be promoted.

Providing a range of pertinent data, analysis and information, this study will be invaluable for anyone wishing to engage effectively with the small media sector.

The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) was established to direct funding and support to the small media sector in the interests of deepening South Africa’s young democracy. The principal objective of this study is to assist the MDDA in its important and complex work.

"The people’s voice, commissioned by the Media Development and Diversity Agency, provides an important service in collecting, organising and summarising the wide range of information about the small media sector, particularly community media, located in various places. This includes some historical background, outlines of policy development, key legislation, initiatives by role players, and so forth. The authors then use this information to draw up a substantial list of recommendations for future interventions in the sector. ...