Kagiso Connect Unveiled as Media Giant Expands Beyond Radio
Kagiso Connect Unveiled as Media Giant Expands Beyond Radio. Kagiso Media Radio has formally rebranded to Kagiso Connect, marking a strategic shift that reflects the organisation’s expansion beyond traditional broadcasting into research, digital publishing, experiential marketing, and financial advisory services.
The transition signals an evolution in scope as the business positions itself across multiple sectors linked by audience engagement and market insight. Leadership said the new identity better represents the breadth of operations now housed within the group.
The Kagiso Connect portfolio includes ownership of Jacaranda FM and East Coast Radio, as well as the South African operation of the global entertainment and lifestyle brand Time Out. The group also owns Vouch SA, an independent digital insurance brokerage operating in the country. In addition, research and insights division SoundInsights continues to provide audience and media intelligence to the marketing and advertising industries.
Through parent company Kagiso Media, the business also manages non controlling interests in Kaya FM, OFM, Heart FM and Gagasi FM. Kagiso Media itself is wholly owned by Kagiso Tiso Holdings.
Chief executive Nick Grubb said the name change reflects a growing range of activities linked to the group’s established radio platforms. He noted that operating under the previous name no longer captured the full extent of the organisation’s value offering. The concept of connection, he explained, reflects a shared focus across brands on building meaningful relationships with audiences and stakeholders.
Kagiso Tiso Holdings chief executive and Kagiso Connect board chair Paballo Makosholo said diversification into complementary sectors has supported continued performance while maintaining a focus on understanding and serving communities.
The organisation’s origins trace back to Kagiso Trust Investments in the early 1990s, established as a commercial vehicle supporting the work of Kagiso Trust. The Trust was co founded by Archbishop Desmond Tutu together with leaders including Beyers Naudé, Frank Chikane, Max Coleman, Alan Boesak, Abe Nkomo, Smangaliso Mkhatshwa and Eric Molobi.
The rebrand was announced internally alongside a company wide initiative to define organisational values. Human Resources Director Wendell Smith said culture and brand identity were closely connected, emphasising the importance of an environment that enables employees to perform at their best.
The organisation said the brand evolution aligns with its intention to function as a resource that provides market understanding and strategic guidance across its portfolio. Leadership indicated the aim is to support operating environments where teams are inspired, supported, and equipped to deliver consistent long term value.
