Government wishes to inform media on the details of media accreditation for the funeral service of the late Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Mpilo Tutu.

Archbishop Tutu passed away on Sunday, 26 December 2021, aged 90 after a long illness. He will be laid to rest on Saturday, 01 January 2022 at his former parish St George’s Cathedral, Cape Town.

As declared by President Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africa will embark on a week of mourning leading up to the day of the funeral.

Due to the COVID-19 regulations currently in place, attendance of the funeral service will be limited.

Accreditation

All media wishing to cover and/or broadcast the funeral of the Archbishop and related official events need to be accredited.

Accreditation shall be issued to media organisations that have a professional working function at the funeral venues and events. The accreditation provides access to specified locations, venues and events for which the accreditation was issued. At certain events, some areas may be restricted for radio, television, news print and photographers.

To be accredited, media will be expected to produce a press card and identification, i.e. the green barcoded or Smart ID, South African Identity Document or a passport for foreign nationals. Once accredited, media and accreditation cards must be visible at all times.

Media are to complete the attached accreditation form in full and submit it to: Ireen@gcis.gov.za(link sends e-mail) and Gerzell@gcis.gov.za(link sends e-mail)

The process of applying for accreditation opens on Monday, 27 December 2021 to Wednesday, 29 December 2021 10h00am.  Members of the media who have successfully applied will be advised on the dates and venues for collection of accreditation in due course.

Source: Government of South Africa