Chauke joins the current team, which includes managing editor Zain Semaar.

There have also been changes to the editorial advisory committee, which was established at the channel's inception to provide independent editorial oversight and uphold the channel's editorial policy and commitment to independence and editorial integrity.

Journalism veteran and stalwart Dr Joe Tlholoe remains chairperson of the committee and is joined by new members. These include the following:
  • Dr Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh aims to bring political insight.
  • Ngiphiwe Mapi Mhlangu aims to lend her expertise on sustainable newsrooms.
  • Katy Katopodis, the channel's outgoing news director, will be vacating that position at the end of the year to take up her role on the editorial advisory committee.

As a long-standing member of SANEF Katopodis brings an understanding of the well-being of active journalists in the field, according to the station.

"Our editorial advisory committee now boasts three generations of journalists of the highest calibre, and we are truly privileged to draw on their expertise and high standing in the profession," says Newzroom Afrika CEO Thabile Ngwato.

Ngwato adds, "This committee provides the assurance that Newzroom Afrika will always strive to uphold the highest standards of journalism and reporting that is balanced, fair and reliable."

"We are thrilled to welcome Chauke as our new editor-in-chief as we put the building blocks towards creating the newsroom of the future in place. We aim to take our reporting to the next level with these strategic appointments," concludes Ngwato.

Chauke is a multi-skilled media professional with 25 years of journalism experience, having reported from global hotspots and disaster zones, from Baghdad to the DRC, as well as pivotal moments in recent South African history. This includes:
  • the Marikana Massacre
  • Nelson Mandela's passing, and
  • the Arms Deal Inquiry.

Meanwhile, Newzroom Afrika’s News@Prime anchor Cathy Mohlahlana will be on maternity leave from mid-December, with Thembekile Mrototo standing in as prime anchor for the next few months.

For more information, visit www.newzroomafrika.tv. You can also follow Newzroom Afrika on Facebook or on Twitter.