/ 20 April 2000

Black bosses for David Philip

Barry Streek

Publisher David Philip has changed hands to emerge as the major black-controlled book publishing house in South Africa.

A majority share of David Philip Publishers (DPP) has been sold to New African Publications (NAP), a subsidiary of New Africa Investments Limited’s newly formed New Africa Media (NAM).

Meanwhile three prominent black academics, Professors Jakes Gerwel, Wilmot James and Njabulo Ndebele, have also acquired a minority shareholding in DPP. The three have all been appointed non-executive directors. Also on the new board is Steve Kromberg, representing TurnStyle Media. Said NAM chair Zwelakhe Sisulu: “David Philip Publishers is a truly indigenous publishing company with a track record and back list to be proud of. We look forward to developing the synergies between DPP and other companies in the group.”

The founders of DPP, David and Marie Philip, have gone into semi-retirement though they retain a shareholding in the new company.