Veteran broadcaster and media personality DJ Fresh is preparing for a major new chapter in his radio career after officially joining Kaya 959, where he is set to take over the station’s highly competitive breakfast show slot.
The celebrated radio host, whose real name is Thato Sikwane, will begin his new role in July, marking a significant return to mainstream radio following his departure from 938 Radio.
The move comes after months of speculation surrounding his sudden exit from the station, where he had been one of the most prominent voices since its launch.
DJ Fresh Breaks Silence on 938 Radio Departure
Speaking candidly on his podcast, What a Week, DJ Fresh addressed the circumstances that led to his departure and offered listeners insight into the challenges that unfolded behind the scenes.
One of the biggest misconceptions, according to the broadcaster, was the belief that he and fellow media personality Unathi Nkayi owned the station.
DJ Fresh explained that while he held a small equity stake as part of his employment package, he was never an owner of the station and had no control over its operations or financial decisions.
“There was a narrative that Unathi and I started a radio station, which simply wasn’t true,” he explained. “I did have equity as part of my contract, but it wasn’t anything substantial enough to suggest ownership.”
The broadcaster said that despite the excitement surrounding the station’s launch and its ambitious vision, many of the promises made during its early stages were never fully realised.
According to DJ Fresh, it eventually became clear that the business was struggling to meet expectations, making the decision to leave increasingly unavoidable.
Financial Challenges Behind the Scenes
During the podcast conversation, DJ Fresh revealed that financial difficulties at the station became a major concern, affecting both management and employees.
He disclosed that staff members allegedly went for extended periods without receiving salaries, creating uncertainty and frustration throughout the company.
While he was fortunate enough to have alternative sources of income through live events, endorsements and personal savings, he acknowledged that many of his colleagues were not in the same position.
“The reality is that things became very difficult. Staff weren’t getting paid, and many people were depending entirely on their salaries to survive,” he said.
DJ Fresh explained that although his passion for radio kept him committed to the station for longer than he perhaps should have stayed, there eventually came a point where continuing to work without payment was no longer financially sustainable.
He admitted that he repeatedly ignored warning signs because of his love for broadcasting and his desire to see the project succeed.
“There comes a time when your passion alone can’t carry you anymore. You still have responsibilities and commitments, and eventually the situation stops making financial sense,” he shared.
Employees Still Awaiting Outstanding Payments
One of the most concerning revelations from DJ Fresh’s comments was his claim that some staff members are still waiting to receive outstanding payments.
The veteran presenter said that despite leaving the station, he himself remains owed several months’ worth of remuneration.
“We got tired of not being paid. People are still waiting to be paid. I’m still waiting for months of payment myself,” he revealed.
His comments have sparked renewed discussion about the financial sustainability of independent media ventures and the challenges many broadcasters face when launching new radio platforms in an increasingly competitive market.
The situation has also highlighted the often-overlooked realities faced by employees behind the scenes, many of whom depend on consistent salaries despite the glamour often associated with the broadcasting industry.
Reuniting With Trusted Colleagues
Despite the difficulties, DJ Fresh said the experience was not without value.
One of the positives he took from the journey was the opportunity to reconnect professionally with long-time collaborator and producer Thato Mataboge.
The pair have enjoyed a successful working relationship over the years, and Fresh described the reunion as one of the most rewarding aspects of his time at the station.
He suggested that, while the business itself may not have unfolded as expected, the relationships and lessons gained from the experience would remain important parts of his career journey.
A New Beginning at Kaya 959
Now, DJ Fresh is turning his attention to Kaya 959, one of South Africa’s leading commercial radio stations.
His appointment is expected to generate significant excitement among listeners, many of whom regard him as one of the country’s most influential radio personalities.
With a broadcasting career spanning more than two decades, DJ Fresh has built a loyal audience through his distinctive style, energetic personality and ability to connect with listeners across generations.
At Kaya 959, he will take over the breakfast show slot previously occupied by Sizwe Dhlomo. The position is currently being held by Thomas Msengana following Dhlomo’s departure from the station shortly before the conclusion of his contract.
The breakfast slot remains one of the most important and closely watched time periods in South African radio, attracting large audiences and playing a key role in shaping daily conversations.
Industry Anticipates Fresh Era
The announcement of DJ Fresh’s arrival has already generated considerable buzz within the broadcasting industry.
Many observers believe his experience, established audience and deep understanding of radio programming could help strengthen Kaya 959’s morning offering and attract new listeners.
For DJ Fresh, the move represents not only a professional opportunity but also a fresh start following a challenging period.
As he prepares to return to one of radio’s most influential platforms, listeners will be watching closely to see how the broadcasting veteran reinvents the breakfast show experience and begins the next chapter of an already remarkable career.
With decades of experience behind the microphone and an enduring passion for radio, DJ Fresh’s return to a major station signals a significant moment for both the broadcaster and South Africa’s radio industry.
