Articles and Opinion pieces by Award-winning South African Journalist, Author & Activist
Zubeida jaffer
Words can move mountains: Remembering Diana Ferrus
Poet Diana Ferrus has died. Her poem helped secure the 2002 return of Sarah Baartman’s remains from France to South Africa.
What makes aging with grace possible?
By Zubeida Jaffer My mother, Raghmat Jaffer, reached the age of 99 years by God’s grace in November, 2025. She continues to do her own chores. I asked her what she would consider being important elements of longevity. Her reply was eating carefully and always moving....
“I feel so helpless -so ashamed to be a human being”
Zubeida Jaffer reflects on Shabbir Banoobhai’s plea and the moral weight of Gaza solidarity, as the Global Sumud Flotilla sails and Cape Town marches demand justice. A quiet meditation on compassion, conscience and collective responsibility.
Global Media organisations call for an end to killing of journalists
In September 2025 more than 50 global media organisations gathered in Johannesburg to adopt the Johannesburg Declaration, committing to media integrity, journalist safety and action ahead of the G20. The M20 calls for a Media Integrity Monitoring Framework and a global push against impunity for attacks on journalists.
Veteran journalists speak out against killing of Gaza journalists
Veteran journalists who once fought apartheid in South Africa have condemned the ongoing killing of journalists in Gaza. In a strongly worded statement, they demand accountability for Israel’s actions and urge the South African government to review its ties with Tel Aviv.
An Open Letter to Marlene Le Roux at Artscape
In this heartfelt open letter, Zubeida Jaffer reflects on the 2025 Women’s Humanity Festival at Artscape, led by Marlene Le Roux. From the stirring voices of Danielle Speckman and Ernestine Nur Stuurman to urgent conversations on peace, environmental protection, and inclusivity, the event showcased the power of art and community to inspire change.