Broadcasting legend Alex Mthiyane celebrates 30 years on air

06 June 2025 - 09:41
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Gagasi FM's breakfast host Felix Hlophe, Khulekani Shandu, Alex Mthiyane and Minnie Ntuli.
Gagasi FM's breakfast host Felix Hlophe, Khulekani Shandu, Alex Mthiyane and Minnie Ntuli.
Image: Supplied

In a momentous milestone for SA radio, Gagasi FM is celebrating the remarkable 30-year career of veteran broadcaster Alex Mthiyane, a figure whose voice has shaped the airwaves and inspired generations of listeners.

Having stepped into the world of radio at the young age of 20, Alex began his journey as a journalism student and intern news anchor at the public broadcaster. Surrounded by some of the most powerful voices in radio, he quickly made his mark, not only as a promising newcomer but as a force to be reckoned with.

Alex later transitioned from news and current affairs to become the voice behind one of vernacular radio’s most transformative shows, the Vuka Breakfast Show. A favourite with early morning listeners, it’s a show many credit with changing the game in prime time radio.

Then came 2006. As Gagasi FM launched, it was Alex & the Morning Crew that became the station’s first broadcast. The show set the tone for what would become one of SA’s leading urban commercial stations.

Alex continues to bring insight and impact to the airwaves with his current affairs show Indaba, featuring a mix of hard-hitting and lifestyle segments such as Business Indaba, Indaba yeSintu, and Sex Indaba. His ability to balance depth with dynamism, still keeps audiences informed and entertained.

Reflecting on his journey, Alex said: “I’m humbled and grateful for the incredible journey I’ve been on for the past 30 years. God has been kind. To my loyal listeners, thank you for tuning in and allowing me to be a part of your daily lives. To my colleagues and mentors, thank you for your support, guidance and camaraderie. And to the radio and TV industry, thank you for providing a platform to share stories, connect with people and make a difference.”

Beyond his on-air success, Alex has also played important behind-the-scenes roles at Gagasi FM, serving as spokesperson, head of news and current affairs and head of audience experience. He credits the station’s leadership, and late radio stalwarts Mtholephi Mthimkhulu and Welcome “Bhodloza” Nzimande, for their support and mentorship over the years.

To mark the special occasion, Gagasi FM invited Alex back to the breakfast slot for a Throwback Thursday edition of The Uprising, co-hosted with Felix Hlophe and Minnie Ntuli. Listeners were treated to a nostalgic trip through his storied career, complete with classic clips, high-profile interviews and behind-the-scenes stories from his decades in broadcasting.



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