For years, he helped shape not only the sound of radio but also the business of culture, proving that when audience connection, storytelling and commercial innovation align, extraordinary things can happen.
Now, one of the architects behind Kaya 959’s rise as a powerhouse cultural brand is returning to the station’s broader ecosystem, marking what many industry observers will view as a significant moment for both Kaya 959 and South Africa’s evolving audio landscape.
Kaya 959 and United Stations have announced the appointment of respected media executive, radio strategist and cultural entrepreneur Greg Maloka as Executive Commercial Partner.
The appointment sees Maloka, through his company Griza Enterprise, joining United Stations, the specialist media sales house that represents a portfolio of radio, audio and digital brands, including Kaya 959.
A Homecoming Built on Legacy
For Maloka, this is more than a professional appointment.
It is a return to a brand he helped transform into one of South Africa’s most distinctive commercial radio success stories.
During his tenure as Managing Director of Kaya 959, the station secured three prestigious Commercial Radio Station of the Year awards and cemented its reputation as a culturally relevant, commercially successful and influential media platform.
His return arrives at a particularly exciting chapter in the station’s journey.
Recently, Kaya 959 announced that broadcasting heavyweight Thato Sikwane, better known as DJ Fresh, will take over the station’s flagship weekday breakfast show from 1 July 2026.
Together, these developments signal a clear strategic direction for the station: attracting major talent, deepening audience engagement, strengthening cultural influence and expanding commercial opportunities.
Strengthening the Commercial Engine
In his new role as Executive Commercial Partner, Maloka will work across the United Stations portfolio, helping drive commercial growth and create innovative solutions for brands seeking meaningful engagement with audiences.
His responsibilities will include strengthening commercial partnerships, unlocking new revenue streams and developing integrated offerings that span radio, digital platforms, activations and audio experiences.
At a time when advertisers are increasingly seeking authentic connections with communities rather than traditional advertising alone, Maloka’s experience in bridging culture and commerce is expected to play a key role.
Dave Tiltmann, Acting Managing Executive at Kaya 959, believes the appointment brings both valuable institutional knowledge and fresh commercial momentum.
“Greg’s relationship with Kaya is not casual. He understands the station, the audience and the role Kaya plays in Gauteng’s cultural and commercial life,” says Tiltmann.
“This is a powerful homecoming, but it is also a very forward-looking appointment. Kaya 959 is moving with intent. With DJ Fresh joining our breakfast platform and Greg now adding his commercial experience through United Stations, we are building around talent, audience influence, and advertiser value.”
Tiltmann adds that Maloka possesses a rare ability to align brand strategy, culture and business outcomes.
“Greg knows how to connect brand, culture, and business. That is exactly the kind of thinking Kaya 959 needs as we enter this next chapter.”
A Belief in the Power of Radio
Despite rapid changes in media consumption, Maloka remains firmly convinced that radio continues to occupy a unique and powerful place in South African society.
For him, the future of media is not simply about platforms. It is about communities, culture and meaningful connections.
“Kaya has always had a special place in my life and career,” says Maloka.
“As the media landscape evolves, radio remains one of the most powerful cultural forces in South Africa. My focus is simple: to help our partners build meaningful connections with audiences while contributing to a stronger cultural economy.”
His vision extends beyond commercial growth.
“When culture grows, businesses grow, communities grow, and the country grows.”
It is a philosophy that has defined much of his career and one that aligns closely with Kaya 959’s positioning as more than just a radio station, but as a cultural platform that reflects and influences conversations shaping modern South Africa.
United Stations Expands Its Firepower
For United Stations, Maloka’s arrival significantly strengthens its senior commercial leadership team.
Managing Director Rivak Bunce says the appointment reflects the company’s commitment to providing advertisers with deeper audience insights and stronger strategic partnerships.
“Greg brings a rare combination of radio experience, market credibility and cultural instinct,” says Bunce.
“He has operated at the highest levels of the industry and understands both the boardroom and the audience. His role will be to help us build stronger partnerships across our brands and bring advertisers closer to the communities and conversations that matter.”
As brands increasingly seek authentic engagement rather than simple exposure, this blend of commercial expertise and cultural understanding is becoming more valuable than ever.
Turning Up the Volume on the Future
The return of Greg Maloka, combined with the arrival of DJ Fresh to the breakfast slot, points to a broader transformation taking place at Kaya 959.
The station is clearly investing in talent, strengthening its commercial offering and reinforcing its relevance within South Africa’s dynamic cultural landscape.
It is a strategy built around influence, authenticity and audience connection.
For listeners, advertisers and industry stakeholders alike, the message is clear.
Kaya 959 is not simply maintaining its position in the market.
It is actively shaping its next chapter.
And with two of the industry’s most influential figures now helping drive that vision, the station appears ready to amplify its impact even further.
As South Africa’s media industry continues to evolve, Kaya 959 is turning up the volume on a future where culture, creativity and commerce move together.
