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Naspers Ltd

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FY2011 Annual Report · Naspers Ltd
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Integrated annual report 2011

www.naspers.com

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scan the barcode above.

Alternatively go to
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for more information.

Contents 

    1  The Naspers group

    2  Scope of the report and assurance
    3   Statement of the board of

directors on the integrated annual report

    4  Highlights of the year in review
    8  Our business
  10  Group at a glance
  12  Our global footprint
  14  Chairman’s report
  20  Chief executive’s report
  28  Risk management
  36   Balancing people, profi t 

and our planet

  37   Value added statement
  38  Strategy

   41  Performance review

  42  Financial review
  45  Operational review

   93  Corporate governance

110  Directorate
116  Remuneration report
126  Report of the audit committee

 129   Summarised annual
fi nancial statements

 145   Shareholder and

corporate information

146  Administration and corporate information

147  Analysis of shareholders

147  Shareholders’ diary

148  Notice of annual general meeting

157  GRI G3 indicators 

161  Form of proxy

164  Notes to form of proxy

Recommend

What type of business are we building?

A leading group of international media and 

e-commerce platforms.

What service do we provide our users?

Entertainment, trading opportunities, 

information and access to their friends 

wherever they are.

Naspers values

What is Naspers about?

We aim to be useful in the 

communities we serve.

We offer an environment for 

entrepreneurs to succeed.

We value cultural diversity.

We love to innovate.

Above all, customer service.

 
 
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
P
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The Naspers group

A spread of media 
investments in 
emerging markets

 
 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Scope of the report and assurance

Naspers has reported annually to stakeholders on 

television businesses in South Africa and Nigeria 

its non-financial performance since 2008.  

(MultiChoice), managed internet operations in  

This is, however, our first integrated annual  

Latin America (BuscaPé) and Central and Eastern 

report – combining financial and non-financial 

Europe (Allegro). Together these account for  

performance for a fuller understanding of our 

80% of group revenue.

group. It covers the financial year from  

Our South African operations publish separate 

1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011. 

integrated annual reports on www.media24.co.za  

The report has been prepared using the 

and www.multichoice.co.za. 

guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative  

We are concentrating on developing group 

(GRI G3) and the recommendations of the latest 

reporting standards that will make our disclosure 

King Report on Corporate Governance in South 

increasingly meaningful and measurable for 

Africa (known as King III). 

stakeholders. Generally, detailed forward-looking 

Integrated reporting is a new discipline and 

information is not provided. 

global standards are still being developed. Until 

In terms of GRI reporting requirements Naspers 

such time, we are guided by peer practices 

has met the requirements and self-declared this 

globally. Our aim is incrementally improved 

report at level C.

reporting and disclosure, while protecting 

the long-term sustainability of our group in a 

highly competitive sector. Feedback can be 

communicated directly to gri@naspers.com.

This report includes the financial performance 

of the Naspers group and its subsidiaries, joint 

ventures and associates. The scope of reporting 

on non-financial performance covers the 

holding company, managed media operations 

in South Africa (Media24), managed pay-

The financial information extracted from the audited 

Naspers Limited consolidated annual financial 

statements for the year ended 31 March 2011  

has been correctly quoted in this integrated  

annual report. Refer to page 132 for 

PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc.’s report.

The South African broad-based black economic 

empowerment information was verified by 

Empowerlogic (MultiChoice) and CODEX (Media24).

The report may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. 
Words such as “believe”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “seek”, “will”, “plan”, “could”, “may”, “endeavour” and similar expressions are intended 
to identify such forward-looking statements, but are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements. While these forward-looking 
statements represent our judgements and future expectations, a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors could 
cause actual developments and results to differ materially from our expectations. These include factors that could adversely affect our 
businesses and financial performance. We are not under any obligation to (and expressly disclaim any such obligation to) update or alter 
our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Investors are cautioned not to place 
undue reliance on any forward-looking statements contained herein.

2

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Statement of the board of directors 
on the integrated annual report

As required by King III, the audit committee has reviewed the 

integrated annual report and the board has reviewed and approved 

the report. The fi nancial statements are prepared in accordance 

with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and the 

South African Companies Act No 61 of 1973 (as amended), while 

the integrated annual report was prepared in accordance with the 

guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) level C.

The integrated annual report and fi nancial statements fairly 

refl ect, in our opinion, the true fi nancial position of the group at 

31 March 2011 as well as that of its operations during this period 

as described in the report.

On behalf of the board

Ton Vosloo

Chairman

Cape Town

24 June 2011

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

3

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Highlights of the year in review
Financial performance

R’m

50 000

40 000

30 000

20 000

10 000

0

Revenue*

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

R’m

12 000

10 000

8 000

6 000

4 000

2 000

0

Trading profit*

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

* including associates on a proportionate basis

* including associates on a proportionate basis

Cents

2 000

1 500

1 000

500

0

Core HEPS

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

R’m

5 000

4 000

3 000

2 000

1 000

0

Free cash flow

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Cents

300

250

200

150

100

50

0

Dividend per share

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

4

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Five-year review

Income statement items  

including associates 

Revenue 

Trading profit 

Excluding associates 

Trading profit 

Free cash flow 

2007 

R’m 

2008 

R’m 

2009 

R’m 

2010 

R’m 

2011

R’m

19 790 

4 156 

25 305 

34 505 

5 243 

7 173 

37 251 

8 537 

45 103

10 220

3 532 

2 182 

4 084 

2 223 

4 940 

2 432 

5 447 

4 129 

5 838

3 991

Statement of financial position 

Total assets 

Total equity 

Total liabilities 

32 184 

21 570 

10 614 

57 523 

33 147 

24 376 

54 560 

35 217 

19 343 

57 468 

35 634 

21 834 

69 855

42 942

26 913

Other information 

Core headline earnings  

per share (cents) 

965 

1 130 

1 179 

1 426 

1 612

Dividend per N ordinary  

share (cents) (proposed) 

156 

180 

207 

235 

270

Weighted average number  

of N ordinary shares (’000) 

295 756 

353 622 

371 004 

372 951 

374 501

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Non-fi nancial performance

USERS AND SERVICE

USAGE ON OUR INTERNET PLATFORMS

OUR PEOPLE

ENVIRONMENT

SOCI0-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

6

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

(cid:96)  4,92 million pay-television homes across Africa.

(cid:96)  18 million smartcards sold by Irdeto globally.

(cid:96)  8 022 827 222 average daily page views.

(cid:96)  8 021 609 average daily unique visitors.

(cid:96)  7 666 851 004 average daily messages.

(cid:96)  817 134 740 total game unique identifi cation number (UiNs).

(cid:96)  Ten talented technologists participated in the international Junior Staff 
  Exchange programme (opportunity to spend three months at a different 
  group company).
(cid:96)  11 up-and-coming technologists recognised with the MIH Distinguished 
  Technologist Award.
(cid:96)  229 bursaries to Media24 employees.

(cid:96)  In Poland, Allegro’s All For Planet Foundation combines ecology with design 

  and music to revitalise public spaces.

(cid:96)  In South Africa our usage of electricity decreased by 9%.

(cid:96)  In Switzerland Ricardo runs charity auctions for Jeder Rappen zählt.

(cid:96)  172 new MultiChoice Resource Centres rolled out across Africa.

(cid:96)  120 000 Phuthuma Nathi shareholders, 108 000 Welkom Yizani shareholders.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

7

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Our business

Naspers is a leading multinational 
media group based in South Africa 
and incorporated in 1915 as a public 
limited liability company. 

technology products and services, and book 

publishing. 

Europe – The group’s activities comprise its 

interests in internet activities in Central and 

It was listed on the Johannesburg Stock 

Eastern Europe and Russia. Naspers also 

Exchange (JSE) in September 1994 where it has 

generates revenue from interactive television 

been a constituent of the Top 40 index for some 

and technology products and services provided 

years. Naspers has an American Depository 

by subsidiaries in the Netherlands. The largest 

Receipt (ADR) listing on the London Stock 

e-commerce platforms are Allegro in Poland 

Exchange (LSE) and international investors are 

(Eastern Europe) and Ricardo, primarily in 

also able to participate via a plan maintained  

Switzerland (Western Europe). In Russia the 

by The Bank of New York Mellon (details on  

group has a 29% investment in Mail.ru Group, 

page 146).

listed on the London Stock Exchange  

Over the past two decades the group has 

(www.mail.ru). 

evolved from a traditional print media business in 

one country to a broad-based media company 

Asia – Group activities span interests in internet 

in multiple markets. The group’s operating 

and print activities based in China, India and 

business segments span internet, pay television, 

south-east Asia. In China the group has a 34% 

print media and related technology in emerging 

investment in Tencent, listed on the Hong Kong 

markets. 

stock exchange (www.tencent.com). In India 

Most of our businesses are market leaders in 

ibibo is growing its internet business, focusing 

their sectors, and our most significant operations 

on social media, search, online gaming and 

are in emerging markets. These include Africa, 

advertising. 

China, Latin America, Central and Eastern 

Europe, Russia and India.

Latin America – The group provides various 

products in the region through subsidiaries and 

Africa – The group earns revenues from television 

associates, with BuscaPé, OLX (e-commerce) 

platform services, print media, internet services, 

and Abril (print) as the main operations.

8

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

INTERNET

MXIT

PAY 
TELEVISION

ENRICHING LIVES

PRINT

TECHNOLOGY

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

9

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Group at a glance

100%

Internet

Eastern Europe

Western Europe

South-east Asia

100%

52%

China

Russia

Africa

MXIT

29%

80%

30%

97%

100%

34%

30%

51%

100%

30%

76%

50%

51%

34%

36%

India

Middle East

25%

Latin America

95%

65%

84%

80%

10

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Pay television

South Africa

Print

South Africa

80%

85%

ENRICHING LIVES

Sub-Saharan Africa

100%

30%

Brazil

China

Technology

100%

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

11

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Global footprint

We have offi ces/provide services in 131 countries

EUROPE

AFRICA

12

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

ASIA

AUSTRALIA

(cid:132)  Group Coverage
(cid:116)  Offi ces

NORTH AMERICA

SOUTH AMERICA

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

13

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Chairman’s report

OVERVIEW
In line with the recommendations of 
the King Report on Governance for 
South Africa 2009 (King III) – revised 
guidelines on corporate governance 
in South Africa and aligned with global 
best practice – this is the fi rst Naspers 
integrated annual report to stakeholders. 
We aim to present a balanced view of 
our economic, social, environmental 
and governance activities for the year 
to 31 March 2011.

As a board we oversee the strategic direction 

of the company. We are pleased to report that 

our results refl ect an increase in consolidated 

revenues by 18% and core headline earnings by 

13%. Major areas of growth were the internet 

and pay-television businesses. Our print media 

business has shown some recovery, while the 

technology business improved margins.

The internet industry continued its robust 

growth during the year, particularly in emerging 

markets, Naspers’s strategic area of expertise. 

The resilience of our pay-television operations 

underscores the importance of quality content, 

although the rising cost of acquiring subscribers 

and sports rights is placing pressure on margins. 

In line with global peers, revenues in our print 

media businesses continued to be subdued. 

Ton Vosloo – chairman

Wireless technology

14

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Film Talent Incubator

Operationally we have made good progress 

the development of entrepreneurs and increases 

in increasing local content and skills in key 

the size of the talent pool. Electrical power is key 

pay-television markets such as South Africa 

to these initiatives and in countries where supply 

and Nigeria (page 56). Importantly, in countries 

is compromised, we have secured alternative 

facing educational challenges, Naspers has 

power sources. 

steadily expanded the scope of its educational 

and literacy initiatives. We are also supporting 

GOVERNANCE 

the development of industries with potential to 

Governance and sustainability are essential 

create employment and develop skills, such as 

for our stakeholders. The board conducts 

fi lm-making and journalism. The MIH Media Lab 

the group’s business with integrity, applying 

sponsors top students in the fi eld of new media 

appropriate corporate governance policies and 

at postgraduate level. This programme fosters 

practices in each company in the group. 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

15

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Chairman’s report (continued)

Several Naspers subsidiaries are governed 

by independent boards of directors, all with their 

own governance practices and subcommittees 

that comply with the necessary governance and 

regulatory requirements. A disciplined reporting 

structure ensures the holding company board 

is apprised of subsidiary activities, risks and 

opportunities.

Detailed strategies and business plans are kept 

under constant review, spanning the fi nancial 

and non-fi nancial elements of each company’s 

business, and performance against targets 

underpins management remuneration. 

Naspers continually evaluates areas where 

governance at corporate and subsidiary level 

can be strengthened. The impact of the new 

Companies Act in South Africa, as well as the 

King III Code on Corporate Governance, was a 

focus over the past year.

The board approved an implementation plan 

to roll out King III across our global operations in 

2009. Good progress was made and the extent 

of applying King III in the governance frameworks 

of Naspers, MIH, MultiChoice and Media24 is 

outlined on page 95 of this report.

REGULATORY ENVIRONMENT 
The regulatory environment in Africa remains 

uncertain and the past year presented many 

challenging issues requiring attention. 

16

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

requirements are under way in Angola, Kenya, 

Namibia, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and 

Swaziland. 

In South Africa cabinet approved the adoption 

of DVB-T2 and set 31 December 2013 as the 

switch-off date for all analogue terrestrial television 

transmissions. A number of matters must be 

finalised by the Independent Communications 

Authority of South Africa (Icasa) and the Ministry 

of Communications for migration, such as 

gazetting a performance period and finalising the 

DTT set-top box subsidy scheme. 

Cost and access to broadband internet remain 

issues in South Africa. Naspers subsidiary MWEB 

was the first internet service provider in the 

country to offer an uncapped ADSL service, an 

important step in expanding affordable internet 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

17

Ending a protracted period of uncertainty, 

the Southern African Development Community 

(SADC) adopted the latest version of the digital 

video broadcast terrestrial standard (DVB-T2) 

to migrate analogue terrestrial television 

broadcasting services to digital terrestrial 

television (DTT). Other countries in sub-Saharan 

Africa are following suit. However, regulatory 

pressure continues to increase owing to the 

planned digital migration and introduction of 

new competitors on all platforms. There is also 

uncertainty on the analogue-to-digital migration 

process as government policies and strategies 

are undefined or unfinished in most countries 

of operation. In addition new broadcasting 

bills, regulations, licences and licence renewal 

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Chairman’s report (continued)

access. The ministry has prioritised broadband 

access, setting November 2011 as the deadline 

for local loop unbundling. This is generally 

expected to increase competition and lower 

broadband prices. 

The regulatory environment in South 

Africa in respect of the press has been under 

considerable scrutiny in the last year. The 

proposed Information Bill currently before 

parliament limits access to information held 

by the state by declaring it secret. It protects 

information that goes beyond that which is 

necessary to protect national security.

The bill will limit the ability of civil society to 

hold government accountable and will facilitate 

corruption.

The fi nal Consumer Protection Act regulations 

Eight new DStv channels

were published on 31 March 2011. It is uncertain 

STOCK EXCHANGE LISTINGS

at this stage what impact these regulations will 

Naspers has its primary listing on the JSE Limited 

have on our businesses.

in South Africa and a Level I American Depository 

DIVIDEND

Receipt (ADR) programme. These shares are 

listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) and 

The board recommends that the annual dividend 

traded in the USA on an over-the-counter (OTC) 

be increased by 15% to 270 cents (previously 

basis. International investors are therefore able 

235 cents) per listed N ordinary share, and 

to buy and sell Naspers securities either through 

54 cents (previously 47 cents) per unlisted 

the appropriate OTC market, or on the London or 

A ordinary share. If approved by shareholders 

Johannesburg stock exchanges.

at the annual general meeting on 26 August 

2011, dividends will be payable to shareholders 

DIRECTORS

recorded in the books on Friday 23 September 

In terms of the company’s articles of association, 

2011 and paid on Monday 26 September 2011. 

one-third of non-executive directors retire annually 

Further details appear on page 44.

and reappointment is not automatic. 

18

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

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GOVERNANCE

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ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Adv Francine-Ann du Plessis, Prof Jakes Gerwel 

meeting. The abridged curricula vitae 

and Messrs Fred Phaswana, Ben van der Ross 

of all directors appear in the directorate on 

and Boetie van Zyl, who retire by rotation at the 

pages 110 to 113.

annual general meeting, but are eligible, offer 

My thanks to my fellow board members 

themselves for re-election. 

for their guidance and support in another 

Shareholders will be asked to consider the 

challenging, but successful year. We also 

re-election of these directors at the annual general 

appreciate the commitment of our management 

meeting, notice of which is contained in this report. 

teams around the world.

Members of the audit committee are Messrs 

Boetie van Zyl and Ben van der Ross, Prof Rachel 

Jafta and Adv Francine-Ann du Plessis. The board 

recommends shareholders reappoint them as 

audit committee members. In compliance with the 

new Companies Act, shareholders will be asked 

to consider their re-election at the annual general 

Ton Vosloo

Chairman

24 June 2011

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

19

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Chief executive’s report

OVERVIEW
Naspers’s results for the year 
underscore the benefi ts of its 
diversifi ed portfolio and global 
presence.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

We link users to media, e-commerce, their 

friends, advertising, content and means of 

communication. Our products and services can 

Koos Bekker – chief executive

improve people’s lives in very practical ways. 

We have already harnessed our core 

services to offer educational programming, 

increase accessibility of banking services 

and grow local industries through our local 

programming and local language strategy. 

Smartphone development

20

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

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GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

We regularly review our progress in building 

a balanced, sustainable organisation and 

identifying areas for improvement.

The board is ultimately responsible for 

To ensure an integrated and group-wide view of 

ensuring that sustainable development is 

the sustainability aspects of our operations, we 

integrated into business strategy. The board 

are consolidating these into a single platform, 

delegates implementation of this policy 

to management, with oversight vesting 

in the group audit and risk committees. 

naspers.org. In time naspers.org will harness the 

group’s strengths in media and technology to build 

products and advocate for policies that address 

Operationally, sustainable development is 

global challenges. 

incorporated under our risk management 

processes. 

The board is also responsible for the 

integrity of integrated reporting. The audit 

committee has been tasked to oversee 

sustainability issues in the integrated annual 

report and will assist the board in its review by 

ensuring the information is reliable and that no 

confl icts or differences arise when compared 

to the fi nancial results.

While this initiative is still young, our vision is 

that naspers.org projects will concentrate on 

addressing social issues and serving the public 

good. Where practical we will draw on synergies 

between group businesses to develop solutions to 

global challenges such as education. We will focus 

on activities that capitalise on Naspers’s expertise, 

global infrastructure and ability to innovate. 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

21

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

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GOVERNANCE

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ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Chief executive’s report (continued)

MANAGING SUSTAINABILITY 

returned to operational profi tability. However, print 

The Naspers board determines the business 

businesses globally, including our own, lagged due 

strategy and is ultimately responsible for oversight 

to slower growth in advertising revenues. 

of our group’s performance. Management teams 

across our businesses provide leadership and 

Internet 

implement strategies, guided by the group’s code 

The internet segment, comprising mainly our 

of ethics and business conduct. 

interests in Allegro in Central Europe, Tencent 

Our sustainable development framework 

in China, Mail.ru in Russia and BuscaPé in Latin 

fl ows from our values and a clear understanding 

America, increased revenue by 47% to R12bn and 

of the key concerns of material stakeholders. 

trading profi t grew to R3,5bn. This includes our 

These link to our risk management processes, 

proportionate share of associates’ results.

which integrate fi nancial and non-fi nancial risk 

The e-commerce operations of Allegro (Eastern 

identifi cation, management and monitoring. 

Europe) and Ricardo (Western Europe) broadened 

their product offerings through organic growth and 

PERFORMANCE IN CONTEXT 

smaller bolt-on acquisitions.

Over the past year the Naspers group continued 

In Russia the recently listed Mail.ru Group 

to expand. In comparison to developed 

holds assets that include 100% of the online 

countries, most emerging markets in which we 

community, email and games platform, Mail.ru,

operate survived the global economic downturn 

instant messaging service ICQ and social network 

reasonably well.

services, My World and Odnoklassniki. It also owns 

For the year under review Naspers recorded an 

18% increase in consolidated revenues to R33bn. 

Consolidated trading profi t advanced 7% to 

R5,8bn, while core headline earnings grew 13% 

to R6bn. Our fi nancial performance is analysed in 

the review on pages 42 to 44. 

The internet businesses in emerging markets 

continued their strong growth by introducing 

accessible, reliable and convenient services to 

users. As a result consumer trust in transacting on 

these platforms is increasing. Our pay-television 

operations grew well, while the technology business 

22

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Sharing information

32,5% of Vkontakte – Russia’s most popular 

social network. In addition Mail.ru has small 

In China, Tencent recorded another strong set 

interests in Facebook, Zynga and Groupon. 

of results in an increasingly competitive market. 

Buoyed by a rebound in online advertising, our 

Our share of Tencent’s revenues was R7,2bn 

share of Mail.ru Group’s reported revenues was 

and trading profi t R3,5bn. The QQ platforms now 

R657m and trading profi t of R157m.

manage 674 million active instant messaging (IM) 

In Latin America OLX was added to the 

user accounts and 137 million concurrent users 

group in August 2010. Our Latin American 

at peak. The social networking service Qzone also 

unit is growing its core comparison shopping 

grew well.

business and broadening its base with new 

In India, ibibo, our joint venture with Tencent, 

services including electronic payments, classifi ed 

is developing social-gaming and e-commerce 

advertising and affi liate advertising networks. 

platforms. 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

23

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Chief executive’s report (continued)

In South Africa, 24.com remains a leading local 

technology and business models are still evolving 

internet publisher. The kalahari.net e-commerce 

globally and it will take some years to see returns 

platform continues to grow and is rolling out a 

on this investment. 

number of new services and products.

In the rest of sub-Saharan Africa, our base 

In aggregate the other internet businesses 

grew by 340 000 to 1,44 million households. The 

reported revenue growth of 45% and a trading 

lower-priced Compact and Family bouquets now 

profi t of R151m, before corporate costs of 

reach 602 000 families. Trading margins were 

R201m.

Pay television

reduced by investment in local content, increased 

competition, higher sport content cost and 

additional international content rights. Increased 

This unit recorded growth of 977 000 households 

regulation and new distribution technologies are 

(including Easyview) during the period. This 

adding to the challenge.

was largely driven by the 2010 Fifa 

SuperSport has become by far the prime 

World Cup, decoder subsidies and 

funder of sport across Africa. Specifi cally it is the 

extensive marketing. As a result 

main supporter of several local soccer leagues on 

revenue increased by 19% to R21bn. 

the continent.

Trading margins were lower due to cost 

pressures from growing the subscriber 

Technology

base, higher sports content cost and 

Consolidated revenues in local 

increased competition.

In South Africa the gross base 

expanded 637 000 to 3,5 million 

households. The lower-priced Compact 

bouquet delivered most growth (376 000 

homes) to pass the one million subscriber 

mark.

Pay television’s advertising revenue 

recovered, bouncing back by 32%.

The roll-out of mobile television services 

started in South Africa. Mobile television 

is a long-term opportunity that will require 

signifi cant investment. The concept, 

24

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

currency grew 10% and 

operating performance improved 

as Irdeto implemented tight 

controls and reorganised its 

products for effi ciencies. 

New clients were added 

and additional services 

introduced, which positioned 

Irdeto in a growing market 

for securing internet-

distributed digital assets.

Top technology

 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Super branding

Print media 

markets. In consideration, the group contributed 

Operations in South Africa showed marginal 

its 39,3% investment in Mail.ru and US$388m in 

revenue growth of 9%, with advertising improving 

cash. DST was renamed Mail.ru Group Limited 

modestly. Trading profi ts declined in part due to 

and its depository receipts were listed on the 

the fl awed implementation of a new enterprise 

London Stock Exchange.

resource planning (ERP) system. 

In August 2010 the group acquired 67,8% 

In Brazil, Abril’s revenue and operating profi t, 

of OLX for US$144m cash. In December 2011 

excluding the educational business sold in the 

the group increased its investment to 71,5%. 

prior year, grew 14% on the back of an improving 

This is a classifi eds business operating mainly in 

economy. 

emerging markets, especially Latin America. 

SIGNIFICANT ACQUISITIONS

INVESTOR ENGAGEMENT 

In August 2010 the group consolidated its 

Naspers is committed to providing timely, 

internet interests in Russia, acquiring a 29% 

transparent and useful information on corporate 

shareholding in Digital Sky Technologies (DST), a 

strategies and fi nancial data to the investing 

prominent internet company in Russian-speaking 

public. We disseminate information through a 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

25

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Chief executive’s report (continued)

broad range of communication channels and do 

maintain our competitive advantage, especially 

not provide information selectively. Shareholders, 

in our technology-intensive businesses. We 

investors and analysts have access to the investor 

aim to attract the best talent, specifically young 

relations function.

engineers. Training is key to our growth. 

Over the past year we conducted roadshows 

We ensure that succession plans for key 

locally and internationally and attended a number 

management are in place.

of investor conferences. We receive feedback 

With effect from 1 April 2011 Cobus Stofberg, 

from the investment community through regular 

chief executive of the MIH group, Naspers’s 

independent surveys and strive to continually 

internet and pay-television operations, stepped 

improve our investor engagement.

down and Antonie Roux, head of MIH’s internet 

Contact details for the investor relations officer 

division, took over the reigns as chief executive 

are on page 146.

and director of MIH Holdings Limited.

PEOPLE

Cobus Stofberg will, however, remain in a full-

time position as a senior executive and corporate 

In a global economic landscape characterised 

adviser to MIH.

by rapid change, markets demand that we 

In April 2011 Francois Groepe resigned as chief 

adapt quickly. This requires rare skills 

executive and director of Media24 to pursue an 

to meet the challenges in each 

acquisition and Esmaré Weideman was appointed 

of the countries in which 

in his stead. 

we operate. Across 

the group, skills 

development 

is critical to 

We value the contribution made by our 

people in so many countries. In a challenging 

year, they have been innovative in achieving 

most of the set goals. Their commitment, 

and the guidance and support of the 

Naspers board of directors, underpins our 

sustainability. 

26

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Skilled people

PREPARING FOR GROWTH 

through the income statement. However, we 

Over the past year the group continued to 

believe this strategy is sound in view of positive 

expand as evidenced by growth in revenue. 

long-term growth prospects.

Although nuances shift from time to time, the 

We aim to deliver value to our shareholders 

growth strategy continues to have three legs 

over the medium to longer term. We will work 

namely organic growth of existing businesses, 

closely with regulators and lawmakers to improve 

pursuing acquisitions that add value and 

the regulatory environment. We continue to 

developing new technologies.

contribute to the communities we operate in.

Recent experience is that internet valuations 

have become heady and value is diffi cult to fi nd. 

As a consequence we are focusing somewhat 

more on growing our businesses organically 

and on developing new technologies. This will 

dampen earnings in the year ahead as the cost 

of developing these businesses are expensed 

Koos Bekker

Chief executive

24 June 2011

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

27

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Risk management

Risk management is integral to the day-
to-day operations of our businesses. As 
an international multimedia group with 
activities in 131 countries, the group is 
exposed to a wide range of risks that 
may have serious consequences. The 
diversified nature of the group, despite 
adding complexity, assists in spreading 
exposure.

RISK PHILOSOPHY

The group is committed to identifying and 

managing risk in line with international best 

corporate governance practice and applying the 

relevant rules and regulations.

The board is responsible for the governance 

of risk and is satisfied with the effectiveness 

of the risk management process. The 

risk committee (page 105), at which risk 

management plans and processes are 

presented, discussed and approved, was 

established during the year. Risk registers of 

significant risks facing the group are discussed, 

as are management’s actions to control these 

risks within board-approved ranges of tolerance. 

The diversified nature of the group helps 

to spread risk, particularly in relation to global 

political and economic instability, market 

development and currency fluctuations. 

Identifying risk and developing plans to manage 

risks are part of each business unit’s business 

plan. These are assessed by the board annually. 

RISK POLICY

The group’s risk profile is based on a 

structured, formal and planned approach to risk 

management. The identification, management 

and reporting of risks are embedded in business 

activities and processes. 

The group’s revised risk policy applies to all 

operations where Naspers has more than 50% 

ownership and management control. 

The board adopted a top-down road map 

for the first-year implementation of the risk plan, 

with areas of focus for the 2011 reporting year 

spanning:

(cid:96)  Naspers corporate

(cid:96)  MIH corporate

(cid:96)  Media24 

(cid:96)  MultiChoice South Africa 

(cid:96)  MultiChoice Africa (Nigeria) 

(cid:96)  BuscaPé, and 

(cid:96)  Allegro 

We plan to roll out the policy to other entities 

in the next financial year.

The policy applies to risks the group  

faces in executing its strategy, operations, 

reporting and compliance activities, and will 

be reviewed annually. Some group companies 

have specific risk management functions and 

28

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

the Naspers risk committee is responsible for 

ERM1 framework as well as the COBIT2 framework 

reviewing these.

for information technology.

Risk management support advises on, 

formulates, oversees and manages the risk 

management system and monitors the group’s 

risk profile, ensuring major risks are identified and 

reported at the appropriate level in the group. 

RISK FRAMEWORK

The Naspers enterprise-wide risk management 

(ERM) framework is designed to ensure 

significant risks and related incidents are 

identified, documented, managed, monitored and 

reported in a consistent and structured manner 

across the group. It is modelled on the COSO 

Material issues and how we manage these

Some material risks are outside our control and 

other factors, besides those listed, may affect the 

overall performance of the business. In spite of our 

structured approach to risk identification, some 

risks may be unknown at present and other risks, 

currently regarded as immaterial, may become 

material. An internal control oversight forum monitors 

the system of internal control.

Naspers has operations in 131 countries, each 

facing a unique set of risks, particularly regarding 

regulation. 
1  COSO ERM: The Committee of the Sponsoring Organisations of the Treadway  

Commission Framework for Enterprise-wide Risk Management.

2  COBIT: Internationally accepted framework for IT governance.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

29

 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Risk management (continued)

At present the following major group risks are evident among a wide range of 
potential exposures:

Material issue

Most of our businesses are subject to extensive regulations.

Naspers operates in 131 countries, each with a set of regulatory and compliance 

obligations that affect the group’s operations.

South Africa’s exchange control regulations require approval for transactions outside 

the common monetary area. If approvals are not received this could hinder our 

ability to make foreign investments.

The Naspers group has a decentralised operational control environment, while 

operating in entrepreneurial, international businesses. 

The geographical spread of operations exposes us to a variety of economic, social 

and political risks. Certain countries in which we operate have faced diffi culties due 

to political instability, currency fl uctuations, interest rates, bankruptcies, stock market 

declines, terrorist attacks, corruption, threats and ransom, epidemics and other 

factors that may materially harm our businesses.

We do not exercise control over our minority investments and the value of our stake 

in such investments could decrease if these businesses adopt strategies or take 

actions contrary to our preferred strategies and actions.

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30

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

How we manage the issue

A regulatory and legal compliance programme has been implemented in the group. 

Regular reviews of applicable legislation by in-country legal resources.

Communication of regulatory issues to decisionmakers.

Working with government agencies and regulators. 

Participating in public processes on new regulations.

Naspers complies with the South African Reserve Bank’s regulations. 

It complies with conditions under which approval for transactions outside the 

common monetary area are granted.

A top-down approach to governance ensures policies are aligned between 

businesses and subsidiaries where we have management control.  

Governance documents and processes reviewed by respective boards, company 

secretaries and Naspers’s internal control oversight forum (ICOF). 

Group risk and internal audit functions monitor compliance and alignment.

In exercising the business strategy we perform regular country and business 

reviews. We diversify markets we invest in, monitor economic, social and political 

issues and take appropriate actions.

The group seeks to be represented on the boards and audit committees of these 

entities and, where possible, to have a voice in material decisions.

It also regularly monitors the performance and operations of these businesses.

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NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

31

 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Risk management (continued)
Risk management (continued)

Material issue
Material issue

Signifi cant investments might not be monetised effectively according to shareholder 

expectations, which could lead to a decline in their valuation of Naspers.

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Technology is an integral part of our operations.

We may be caught off-guard by the pace of new technologies or start-ups, or 

deploy new technologies too slowly or ineffectively.

We may not detect social, technical or economic shifts before our competitors do.

Competitors in our markets may threaten the position of our companies and 

associates. Competition includes new or traditional players as well as new products 

and services. Loss of market share and scale may place pressure on margins.

The group’s pay-television services are mostly delivered to subscribers via satellite. 

Satellites are subject to damage or destruction, which may disrupt the transmission 

of services.

Protracted power failures will affect revenues negatively.

Unauthorised access to our pay-television programming signals.

32

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

How we manage the issue
How we manage the issue

Naspers communicates with its investors, aiming to provide insight into our 
operations while protecting our competitive advantage and complying with stock 
exchange listing requirements.
Segmental results enable the investment community to form an opinion of the 
valuation of individual businesses in the group. 
Regular impairment tests are performed and reported on in terms of investments.

Continued focus on emerging technologies in own products and services. 
Acquiring companies that have developed new technologies and demonstrated 
relevance in our segments and markets. 
Focus on engineering resources and implementing recruitment programmes for 
the best engineers.

Regular strategy reviews on how to respond to changing competitive landscape.

First to market with products and services we believe hold promise.
Establish complementary businesses, reducing dependency on single elements of 
the value chain.
Regular market reviews including reviews of operational statistics.
Acquiring new players or new technologies that may enhance or increase 
longevity of our platforms.

Procedures to augment the availability of services range from back-up capacity to 
built-in redundancy. The cost of these measures is considered against the impact 
and likelihood of the risk occurring and consequently, in some cases, satellites or 
other key components remain unprotected or only partially protected.

Installation of back-up power supplies where feasible.

Regularly upgrading conditional access technology.

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NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

33

 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Risk management (continued)

Material issue

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Our level of debt could affect our business. Our ability to make payments on our 
debt depends on our operating performance, which is in turn subject to risks that 
may be outside our control. 

If fi nancial institutions where the group invests its surplus cash experience signifi cant 
fi nancial diffi culty, the group could suffer losses. 

Dislocations in credit and capital markets may make it more diffi cult for us to borrow 
money or raise capital to fi nance expansion of our existing businesses or make 
acquisitions.

The group reports in South African rand and this exchange rate may vary against 
other currencies. In addition, in several markets, the group has substantial input 
costs in foreign currencies. The movements of these currencies could have a 
negative or positive impact on our income or expenses. Unrealised and realised 
currency translation gains or losses may distort the group’s financial accounts.

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We rely on the skills of a few key individuals with detailed knowledge of our business 

and the markets in which we operate. Unanticipated loss of these individuals may 

disrupt the business.

Implementing a healthy, safe workplace at both administrative and production 

facilities in line with local legislation and regulations.

Incidents at any of our facilities resulting in death or serious injury while on duty may 

also result in criminal liability, fi nes and penalties for the company, its directors and/

or offi cers.

34

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

How we manage the issue

The group has a conservative approach to its debt profi le, based on considering 
the adequacy of internal free cash fl ow resources in servicing debt and the level 
of investments it makes.
Debt-bearing capacity is reviewed and approved by the board.

Naspers has a treasury policy approved by the risk committee that governs 
distribution of cash resources (and thus the impact of a loss) and the grade of 
fi nancial institutions. Cash resources are frequently monitored by management.
A treasury report is presented to the risk committees of major subsidiaries.

Constantly monitor credit markets to determine optimal time to arrange funding. 
Ensure the group has spare debt capacity to tide it over in times of diffi culty.
Spread maturity of debt facilities.
Maintain a balanced portfolio of cash-generating and early stage businesses.

Comply with IFRS. Management explains the impact of changes in exchange 
rates on results in its analysis to stakeholders.
The group has a policy to hedge some of its operational foreign currency 
exposures, where possible.

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Succession plans and talent pipelines are developed by our key businesses and 

reviewed annually by the relevant human resources and remuneration 

committees.

Perform health and safety audits.

Consequences of non-compliance with relevant local regulations are 

communicated to management and remedial action taken where appropriate.
Relevant risk committee monitors exceptions and progress.

Comprehensive risk audits are performed annually at these facilities to ensure 

compliance with policies, procedures and legislation.

Naspers has a comprehensive group-wide directors and offi cers (D&O) liability 

insurance policy as well as relevant short-term insurance.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Balancing people, profi t 
and our planet

Naspers 

recognises 

that 

sustainable 

development 

Naspers connects people by playing a signifi cant 
developmental role in the markets where it operates. 

Education has been one of our group’s most important contributions 

to the African continent. In this fi eld we contribute to improving 

literacy levels through various forms of print media (from newspapers 

and economic, social and 

to school books), electronically through television, which opens up 

environmental protection are global 

the world to many people, and through social networking.

imperatives that result in both 

Through SuperSport, Naspers has become by far the prime 

opportunities and risks for business. 

funder of sport across the continent, while promoting associated 

Naspers as a leading media company 

social and economic goals (page 78). This applies especially to 

aims to position itself to meet such 

soccer. 

challenges.

M-Net’s initiatives have stimulated the South African industry by 

As Naspers expands its business, it 

partnering with local fi lm-makers and content producers to assist 

aims to contribute to the communities 

emerging talent to make programming with universal appeal for its 

in which it operates; develop its 

Africa Magic and Mzansi Magic channels.

own people; contribute to general 

Naspers’s internet platforms focus on e-commerce, communities, 

economic prosperity; and minimise its 

content, communication and games. These have brought products 

impact on the environment. 

and services previously inaccessible in some markets to our users. 

In formulating this policy, areas 

Environmentally our most direct impact is from print media. 

in which the group can make a 

Our internet businesses inherently have a lower impact on 

meaningful contribution to sustainable 

the environment. Through some of their trading activities they 

development in the markets in which 

stimulate buying and selling used or recycled goods in a paperless 

it operates, were analysed, facilitating 

the integration of these aspects 

environment, and strive to make a difference, for example Allegro’s 
allforplanet initiative (page 90).

into day-to-day operations and the 

As we expand our international presence in emerging markets, 

formulation of strategy.

the focus will remain on sustainable development. We want to 

Extract from Group Sustainable 

contribute to the communities in which we operate, develop our own 

Development Policy 2010

people, contribute to economic prosperity at national and individual 

Sustainable development

level, and minimise our impact on the environment.

36

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Value added statement

for the year ended 31 March 2011

Revenue 

Cost of generating revenue 

Value added 

Income from investments 

Wealth created 

Wealth distribution: 

Employees 

Salaries, wages and benefits 

Providers of capital 

Finance cost 

Dividends paid 

Governments 

Total tax paid 
Reinvested in the group 

Depreciation, amortisation and capital items 

Retained earnings 

31 March 
2011 
R’m 

33 085 

18 501 

14 584 

4 085 

18 669 

5 972  

2 271 

1 389 

882 

4 033 
6 393 

2 037 

4 356 

18 669 

31 March
2010
R’m

27 998

15 399

12 599

3 096

15 695

4 953

1 656

883

773

3 675
5 411

2 949

2 462

15 695

Distribution of wealth

34%

22%

34%

23%

2011

12%

2010

11%

32%

32%

 (cid:116)  Paid to governments
 (cid:116)  Paid to providers of capital

 (cid:116)  Paid to employees
 (cid:116)  Reinvested in the group

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Strategy

STRATEGIC FOCUS
We are building a leading group of 
international media and e-commerce 
platforms to give users entertainment, 
trading opportunities, information and 
access to friends wherever they are. 
In the process we create value for 
shareholders, attract innovative and 
motivated employees and contribute 
to the communities we operate in, to 
ensure a sustainable business for the 
future.

HOW WE DO THIS

(cid:96)  Sustain organic growth of the business 

combined with some investments.

(cid:96)  Focus on markets with higher growth 

EXAMPLES OF OUR STRATEGY IN ACTION
(cid:96)  E-commerce platforms were initially simple. 

We have since expanded into a number of 

verticals and service a number of e-commerce 

opportunities.

(cid:96)  Pioneering e-commerce in Africa with  

kalahari.net.

(cid:96)  Attained leadership in India in local social 

potential, where we can achieve sustainable 

network services and games, with Tencent as a 

positions.

partner. 

(cid:96)  Increase the number of users accessing our 

(cid:96)  Mail.ru’s listing on the London Stock Exchange 

internet products and services, and deepen 

and increase in value.

their engagement with us.

(cid:96)  In Latin America and Eastern Europe we 

(cid:96)  Expand the pay-television subscriber base –  

are growing our core internet business and 

maintain a local approach and innovative 

broadening our base by rolling out new services. 

technology.

(cid:96)  Continue working with regulators. 
(cid:96)  Attract the best talent – train and develop 

employees. 

(cid:96)  MultiChoice’s South African DStv subscriber 

base now delivers entertainment to 3,5 million 

households. The Compact bouquet, which 

targets the emerging market, has grown steadily. 

(cid:96)  Use our expertise and resources to benefit 

(cid:96)  Innovation at Irdeto with the development of its 

local communities where we operate.

internet media business.

38

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

NASPERS ACROSS THE GLOBE 

For a fuller understanding of the Naspers group in context, we summarise some key indicators of our 

major operating regions.

Population 
millions 

Internet 
population 
millions 

Mobile 
population 
millions 

GDP 
US$bn 
PPP* 

GDP

per capita
US$

Latin America (Brazil, Argentina and Mexico) 

359 

120,7 

309 

4 350 

12 121

India 

China 

Russia 

1 189 

81,0 

670 

4 046 

3 403

1 337 

421,0 

747 

9 872 

7 384

139 

41,0 

231 

2 147 

15 446

Africa and Middle East 

1 201 

117,4 

546 

3 227 

2 687

Source: CIA Factbook and ITU

* Purchase power parity

 LOOKING AHEAD
 Focusing on the internet  we plan to expand the 
group through a combination of organic growth 

countries,  but is less regulated than television 

or print in most countries. Competition in pay 

television has increased sharply in South Africa 

and acquisitions and  to deliver value to our 

after new licences were issued. Many other 

shareholders over the medium to longer term. 

countries on the continent are following the 

Stringent processes apply when evaluating 

same trajectory.

investment opportunities. 

 CHALLENGES
 Each business unit in the Naspers group 

 Key challenges include: 

 (cid:96)   Attracting and retaining the right people.

 (cid:96)   Infl ated internet asset valuations,  which 

faces its own set of competitors. This adds 

make acquisitions diffi cult.

complexity but reduces group risk,  since we are 

 (cid:96)   Ability to innovate in a changing 

unlikely to be wiped out by a single competitor 

technological environment to sustain growth.

or technological shift. The group approach to 

 (cid:96)   Achieving the right balance when rolling 

risk management is detailed on page 28.

out governance initiatives across a group 

 Globally  the regulatory environment for media 

operating in 131 countries,  while 

and broadcasting is changing. The internet 

encouraging those businesses to be 

is subject to at least some legislation in all 

innovative and entrepreneurial.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

39

 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Strategy (continued)

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

Naspers has a broad range of stakeholder groups and these differ by region. Broadly, the group deals 

with stakeholders through:
(cid:96)  employee newsletters, surveys, management briefings and intranet sites
(cid:96)  one-on-one meetings with suppliers, business partners and opinion formers
(cid:96)  feedback from readers through channels such as letters to editors and social media 
(cid:96)  interaction with readers/users/subscribers and the community as well as the cultural community 

through hosted or sponsored cultural events

(cid:96)  participation in industry groups to develop shared practices
(cid:96)  frequent engagement with our shareholders 
(cid:96)  policy engagement with regulators, and 
(cid:96)  engaging with local communities through corporate citizenship activities.

40

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

Performance review

W
E

I

V
E
R
E
C
N
A
M
R
O
F
R
E
P

Reaching out
through the internet, 
broadcast and print media

 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Financial review

This review sets out highlights of the group’s financial performance for the past 

year. Full details appear in the annual financial statements.

OVERVIEW OF GROUP RESULTS

During March the group refinanced its RCFs. 

The group achieved a solid performance over 

These were increased to US$2bn and the tenure 

the past year, increasing consolidated revenues 

extended to 2016. The facilities bear interest at 

by 18% and core headline earnings were up 

USD LIBOR plus 1,75% before commitment and 

13%. These results were underpinned by 

utilisation fees.

a diversified portfolio and a strong financial 

position.

Major areas of growth were the internet and 

pay-television businesses. Worldwide the internet 

industry continued its expansion from which 

most of our internet businesses benefited. The 

resilience of our pay-television operations in an 

REVENUES

Consolidated revenues expanded by 18% 

to R33bn. Consolidated internet revenues 

(excluding associates) were up 36%, while 

growth of the subscriber base saw pay-television 

revenues increase by 19%. 

increasingly competitive environment underscores 

TRADING PROFIT

the benefit of quality content, although rising 

costs will place margins under pressure. Our print 

media business experienced a limited recovery 

in advertising revenues, whilst the technology 

business was able to improve margins.

CORPORATE ACTIVITIES

Consolidated trading profit, which includes 

finance cost on transponder leases, but excludes 

intangible amortisation, other than software and 

other gains/losses lifted 7% to R5,8bn. The 

reduction in margins was largely the result of  

higher costs in the pay-television business.

The group issued a seven-year US$700m bond, 

NET INTEREST COST 

with a coupon rate of 6,375%. The proceeds 

Net interest cost on cash and loans increased 

were used to partly pay down an offshore 

from R286m last year to R575m, the result of 

revolving credit facility (RCF). 

funding investments with debt.

42

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
THE NASPERS  
GROUP
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
PERFORMANCE
REVIEW
REVIEW

CORPORATE
CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION
INFORMATION

EQUITY-ACCOUNTED RESULTS

financial statements on page 141. As regularly 

Our core earnings from equity-accounted 

reported to shareholders the board maintains 

associates grew to R3,6bn, mostly from strong 

the view that core headline earnings is an 

performances at Tencent and Mail.ru Group.

appropriate measure of the group’s sustainable 

DILUTION GAIN

The reported dilution gains of R1,5bn are solely 

operating performance, as it excludes once-off 

and non-operating items. 

theoretical, arising mainly from the contribution of the 

group’s stake in Mail.ru into the newly listed entity. 

CASH FLOWS AND STATEMENT OF 
FINANCIAL POSITION

CORE HEADLINE EARNINGS

This earnings performance delivered positive 

free cash flows of R4bn. Our funding structure 

Core headline earnings for the year grew 13% to 

remains sound with total consolidated net 

R6bn. A calculation of headline and core headline 

debt, excluding satellite leases of R3,9bn. This 

earnings is detailed in the summarised annual 

represents a net debt:equity ratio of 10%.

Core headline earnings
Core headline earnings growth
Compounded annual growth rate: 41%

R’m

7 000

6 000

5 000

4 000

3 000

2 000

1 000

0
2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

43

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Financial review (continued)

SIGNIFICANT ACQUISITIONS

Details of signifi cant acquisitions appear in the 

summarised annual fi nancial statements on 

page 144.

SUMMARISED AND ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

The summarised annual fi nancial statements 

appear on page 130 of this integrated annual 

report. The full annual fi nancial statements for the 

year ended 31 March 2011 are enclosed with 

this report and are also available on our website 

at www.naspers.com. 

+27% 

compound 
growth
per annum

(Compounded 

growth over 10 years: 

27% per annum)

Proposed dividend per N share:
270 cents per share

270

235

207

180

156

120

70

25

30

38

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

44

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Operational review

Naspers is a leading media group in emerging markets with 

assets diversifi ed across internet, pay television and print 

media in markets with strong growth potential.

Internet – internet platforms in Eastern and Central Europe, China, 
Russia, Latin America, Africa, India and south-east Asia. Services 

include e-commerce, communities, communication, social networks, 

entertainment and mobile value-added services.

Pay television – pay-television subscriber platforms in South 
Africa and sub-Saharan Africa outside South Africa. Naspers also 

develops underlying content protection and access 

management technologies for internet, 

pay-television and mobile platforms.

Print media – magazines, 
newspapers, printing, distribution 

and book-publishing businesses 

in South Africa and sub-Saharan 

Africa outside South Africa and print media 

investments in Brazil and China.

Smart platforms

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

45

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Operational review Internet

Internet

Revenue*

EBITDA*

Trading profit*

R’m

15 000

12 000

9 000

6 000

3 000

0

R’m

4 000

3 500

3 000

2 500

2 000

1 500

1 000

500

0

R’m

3 500

3 000

2 500

2 000

1500

1 000

500

0

2010
* including associates on a proportionate basis

2011

2010
* including associates on a proportionate basis

2011

2010
* including associates on a proportionate basis

2011

46

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

EUROPE

Sector focus

Mobile
value-added
services

Portal

Social
network
services

Community

Payment
platforms

E-commerce

IM
Email

Games

The principal revenue sources are 

Geographically, the European portfolio spans 

e-commerce, classifi eds, payment services, 

23 countries through three main businesses: 

comparison shopping, advertising, fee-

Mail.ru Group in Russia, the Allegro Group in 

based value-added services and gaming. 

Poland and Ricardo group in Switzerland.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

47

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Operational review Internet (continued)

The Allegro Group provides mainly fi xed-price 

e-commerce transaction platforms (over 85% 

of all transactions) as well as auctions, classifi ed 

advertisements (general auto, jobs and real 

estate), price comparison services and payment 

systems in 17 territories. Allegro continues to 

deliver strong growth with transactions increasing 

by 25%, gross merchandise value by 16% and 

revenue by 20% to PLN667m (R1,6bn). While 

Poland is still the core market for this group, 

international operations are now starting to 

contribute. 

In the recent past the Mail.ru Group was 

transformed by the merger with Digital Sky 

Technologies (DST) and its listing on the London 

Stock Exchange. After listing, Naspers holds 

29% of Mail.ru Group. Full details on 

Mail.ru Group’s performance are available on 

www.corp.mail.ru.

48

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Mail.ru Group manages leading social networking 

The Ricardo group performed well 

and social entertainment platforms. It also 

during the year, delivering revenue growth 

houses leading kiosk payment and jobs 

of 30% and expanding both its range 

classifi eds operations, with small stakes in 

of services and geographic footprint. In 

non-Russian assets such as Facebook, Zynga 

November 2010 Ricardo acquired 70% 

and Groupon. Mail.ru Group recorded strong 

of the leading Danish fashion classifi eds 

growth, with revenue rising 86% to US$275m. 

business, Trendsales.dk. Subsequent to 

Gadu-Gadu is the largest instant 

year-end, Ricardo acquired 70% of leading 

messaging (IM) community in Poland, where 

Italian shopping comparison company, 

the group impaired R492m of goodwill and 

7Pixel, strengthening the group’s position in 

intangible assets since growth has lagged. 

this e-commerce segment.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

49

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Operational review Internet (continued)

SOUTH-EAST ASIA

Sector focus

IM
Email

Mobile
value-added
services
(MVAS)

Social
network
services

Portal

Community

E-commerce

Games

Payment
platforms

MIH’s interests in India and the rest of south-

Sanook! remains the leading local portal 

east Asia continue to grow organically and 

through acquisitions.

In India the ibibo partnership with Tencent 

has enabled this business to strengthen its 

knowledge of social platforms and social 

gaming. ibibo is the fi rst company in India to 

create a business model focused on virtual 

in Thailand, despite diffi cult conditions in that 

country. As in India MIH has established a joint 

venture with Tencent to develop the social games 

and communications platform.

In the Philippines Sulit maintained its status as 

a top local website and launched classifi eds cars. 

Lelong is a market leader in online auctions and 

has expanded with an online mall, SuperBuy.

goods and commerce, spanning shopping, 

MIH expanded its interest in south-east Asia 

travel, an ad network and a payment platform. 

by acquiring 76% of Multiply, a company 

moving from social media to e-commerce. 

50

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

CHINA

Sector focus

Mobile
value-added
services
(MVAS)

Portal

Community

Social
network
services

Payment
platforms

IM
Email

Games

Search

E-commerce

T   encent’s excellent performance refl ects the 

Total internet users in China grew 19% to the 

outstanding management team and employees 

end of 2010, while internet penetration increased 

of Tencent, led by Ma Huateng. 

to 34%, exceeding the global average for the 

Tencent (34% interest through MIH) recorded 

fi rst time. Although the growth of China’s internet 

good fi nancial and operating results for the year 

user base has slowed as its scale increases, the 

in an increasingly competitive market. The rapid 

internet has become part of people’s everyday 

growth of the internet industry in China enabled 

life. Competition for users continues to increase, 

Tencent, through its persistent focus on user 

however, as internet companies are extending 

experience, to extend the growth of its core 

and diversifying their offerings. 

platforms. 

Core operating platforms again recorded 

good growth as Tencent launched new online 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

51

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Operational review Internet (continued)

137 million peak concurrent users

games to diversify its portfolio and broaden its 

user base. The QQ instant messaging platform 

recorded peak concurrent users of 137 million in 

March 2011, a new milestone. The online gaming 

industry in China. Tencent also continues to invest 

business achieved above-industry growth in 

heavily in network and platform security. This was 

2010, entrenching it as a leading games business 

intensifi ed after a security scare in the fourth quarter 

globally. Massively multiplayer online games and 

of 2010, which caused disruption to users.

advanced casual games were key drivers. 

During the year Tencent made strategic 

QQ Games registered healthy growth and provided 

investments in a few international markets including 

a platform for other Tencent online games. 

Russia, India, south-east Asia and the USA. 

Community internet value-added services also 

These include a 7,6% interest in Mail.ru Group 

registered solid growth.

and a majority stake in Riot Games, a US-based 

Tencent continues to increase its investments 

developer and publisher of online games. 

in research and development capability, technical 

Total revenue for the year to 31 December 

infrastructure and personnel development. In 

2010 was RMB19,6bn (US$2,9bn), up 58% on 

addition, to enrich the content offered to users, 

the prior year. Profi t attributable to equity holders 

Tencent has adopted an open-platform strategy, 

was RMB8bn (US$1,2bn), 56% higher year-on-

allowing third parties to develop applications for 

year. As Tencent is listed on the Hong Kong Stock 

its platform. Tencent platforms are already playing 

Exchange, extensive further details are available 

an essential role in building a collaborative internet 

on its website www.tencent.com.

52

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA

Sector focus

MXIT

Mobile
value-added
services
(MVAS)

Portal

Social
network
services

Community

IM
Email

Payment
platforms

Games

E-commerce

kalahari.net is the leader in South African 

brands and genres), digital content (e-books and 

e-commerce with an estimated 20% share of 

e-music), and reducing non-performing lines.

business-to-consumer e-commerce (excluding 

kalahari.net pioneered a fi rst in Africa by 

travel). This electronics and general merchandise 

launching MarketPlace during the year. This 

business is geared to selling books, CDs, DVDs, 

platform allows third-party sellers to offer their 

games and consumer electronics. kalahari.net 

products, new and pre-owned, alongside 

has maintained its focus on growing revenue 

kalahari.net in a secure and trusted 

through range expansion (increased electronic 

environment. This year also saw the launch of 

kalahariAds.net, an online classifi eds site. 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

53

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Operational review Internet (continued)

During the year MIH acquired 25% of Dubizzle 

Limited, the leading online classifi eds provider in 

the United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

MIH Internet Africa owns 51% of Korbitec, 

which provides services to legal, property and 

banking stakeholders, as well as other players 

in the property value chain. During the past year 

Property24.com, South Africa’s leading property 

portal, was integrated with Korbitec to build a 

consumer-focused property e-commerce hub.

54

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

LATIN AMERICA

Sector focus

Mobile
value-added
services
(MVAS)

IM
Email

Social
network
services

Community

Games

Payment
platforms

E-commerce

BuscaPé, our e-commerce business in Latin 

In August 2010 MIH acquired a majority stake 

America, continued to grow. BuscaPé offers 

in OLX, a leading classifi eds platform. This 

comparison shopping (BuscaPé and BondFaro), 

market segment is dynamic and very competitive. 

a platform for classifi ed advertisements 

In December 2010 MIH acquired Level Up! 

(QueBarato), payment platforms (Pagamento 

Holdings, the leading massive multiplayer online 

Digital and PagosOnline) and related services. 

(MMO) operator in Brazil, with a lesser stake 

Movile, our mobile value-added services 

in Level Up! Philippines. This business does 

provider, entrenched itself as one of the leading 

not develop games but distributes, markets 

such players in Latin America. It now also 

and operates games from several different 

facilitates mobile payments for digital goods.

developers.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

55

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Operational review (continued)

Pay television

Revenue

EBITDA

Trading profit

R’m

25 000

20 000

15 000

10 000

5 000

0

2010

2011

R’m

7 000

6 000

5 000

4 000

3 000

2 000

1 000

0

R’m

6 000

5 000

4 000

3 000

2 000

1000

0

2010

2011

2010

2011

SOUTH AFRICA

The MultiChoice DStv subscriber base grew 

by 637 000, bringing the number of subscribers 

for the year to 3,5 million. This includes the entry 

level bouquet, Easyview, which has minimal 

subscription. The Compact bouquet, targeted at 

the emerging market, recorded solid growth 

of 376 000 subscribers in the year, and now 

reaches more than 1 million households. 

Overall growth was boosted by excellent sales 

during the 2010 Fifa World Cup and decoder 

price specials. The launch of a new operator 

stimulated interest in pay television. An entry-

level bouquet, DStv Lite, was well received, while 

the DStv Premium and Select bouquets continued 

Add to friends!

to grow. 

56

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS 
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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

The popular personal video recorder (PVR) 

decoder recorded sales growth of 117 000 to end 

on 480 000, aided by the introduction of a lower-

priced two-tuner high-defi nition PVR. 

Several new channels are improving the 

viewer’s experience, ranging from entertainment 

and movies to documentaries and sport. These 

include Food Network, SONY MAX, KidsCo and 

Afro Music.

The launch of Mzansi Magic was fun (page 60). 

The channel showcases locally produced South 

African entertainment and features fi lms, comedy, 

music specials, talk shows, documentaries, 

Sevens or Super rugby?

series and dramas.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

57

 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

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GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Operational review Pay television (continued)

The high-defi nition (HD) offering also continued 

service is available to 

to grow. With the latest additions (M-Net Movies 1 

HD, Discovery HD, SuperSport HD and a 24-hour 

DStv Premium 

subscribers 

HD English Premier League channel), there are 

with PVRs, providing 20 hours 

now six HD channels on DStv. 

of the most popular television series and sports 

SuperSport’s production of the 2010 Fifa World 

magazine shows for up to seven days after 

Cup in South Africa was extensive. In addition 

broadcast. The online service can be accessed 

to a dedicated 24-hour channel in HD, all 

using a personal computer through the DStv 

matches were offered in four languages (English, 

website and provides premium content, including 

Portuguese, Zulu and Sotho) and preceded by 

movies, series, sporting action, children’s shows 

an hour of intensive build-up. Match analyses by 

and documentaries.

international and local guests, as well as exclusive 

For a deeper understanding of viewing 

content from Fifa’s behind-the-scenes cameras, 

behaviour on the DStv platform, an audience 

added to the experience. There were also four 

measurement tool, DStv-i, was launched. The 

daily live magazine shows, a dedicated website, 

reporting panel currently comprises some 

roving cameras at match venues, reporters in 

4 000 DStv households, and is being used 

Lagos and Nairobi, all broadcast from a multi-

by both the advertising industry and internal 

stage, purpose-built HD studio.

stakeholders. 

A catch-up service, DStv On Demand, was 

The DStv Mobile service, using digital video 

launched on the set-top box and online. The 

DStv’s 15th birthday

58

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

broadcasting – handheld (DVB-H) 

technology, was launched in 

December 2010. The service can 

be accessed on a DVB-H-enabled 

cellphone or via MultiChoice’s new 

mobile television decoder, the Drifta. 

This is a separate device that receives 

the DStv mobile broadcast signal 

and relays it to enabled devices 

such as laptops, PCs, tablets and 

smartphones.

DStv Mobile is a long-term 

opportunity that will require 

THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Recommend this

signifi cant investment. The technology 

and business models are still evolving 

globally and it will take some years to 

generate returns on this investment. 

However, it is important for the 

development of South Africa’s engineering 

capability in information and communication 

technologies to constantly experiment on the 

cutting edge of new technologies.

MWEB introduced an uncapped internet 

service, a fi rst for the South African market. 

This has led to more affordable internet rates in 

South Africa. 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

59

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Operational review Pay television (continued)

CASE STUDY – MZANSI MAGIC 

Given rapid changes to the DStv viewer base in South Africa, M-Net 

has remodelled popular shows. Launched in July 2010, Mzansi Magic 

now showcases entertainment, comedy and local programmes. Mzansi 

is meeting the needs of Compact and Premium viewers, including the 

rapidly expanding black middle class.

Mzansi Magic was shaped through dialogue with actors, musicians 

and comedians in the industry. The channel aims to play a role in 

stimulating the development of the South African film-making industry, 

particularly for emerging talent. 

REST OF AFRICA 

In the rest of Africa MultiChoice recorded 

SuperSport continued its football  

good growth despite the launch of additional 

coverage in Angola, Ghana, Nigeria,  

competitors in most markets. The DStv 

Kenya and Zambia. It expanded its coverage to 

subscriber base increased by 340 000 to end 

include basketball in Nigeria and Angola. 

the year on 1,44 million households. 

The HD offering was increased to include 

The launch of a new satellite, and the 

M-Net Movies and SuperSport HD.

subsequent successful migration of subscribers, 

For the DStv English market, new channels 

allows us to broadcast more channels. 

include eTV Africa, Food Network, Kingdom Africa 

A new bouquet, DStv Compact PLUS, was 

and SONY MAX. Our Portuguese markets on 

launched for subscribers wanting additional 

DStv Bué Facil can now enjoy AXN HD Biography, 

sports channels in the mid-level tier. A low-cost 

Fine Living, Historia, Jim Jam, TV Brazil and Zone 

Portuguese bouquet, DStv Bué Facil, aired in 

Reality. Premium subscribers received additional 

Angola and Mozambique. 

value with the launch of DStv On Demand.

Our focus on localising programming in Africa 

Competition is growing rapidly, from both 

included launching a Nigerian news channel,  

new entrants and existing participants. This 

NN24, and expanding the Kenyan  

has significantly increased the cost of content, 

news channel K24 to more countries. 

especially sports rights. 

60

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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Technology

Revenue

EBITDA

Trading profit

R’m

1 500

1 200

900

600

300

0

R’m

200

150

100

50

0

R’m

150

120

90

60

30

0

2010

2011

2010

2011

2010

2011

Irdeto is developing solutions combining various 

Highlights of the year include:

products and services to address pay-media 

(cid:96)  18 million conditional access (CA) secure 

operator requirements. These solutions gained 

units delivered, 17% up. From 2011 CA 

as operators capitalised on the combination of 

units shipped will increasingly include 

broadcasting and broadband delivery to extend 

Cloaked CA units, Irdeto’s software product 

their offerings. These services are designed to 

using advanced Cloakware technology

appeal to online viewing (fixed or mobile) and 

(cid:96)  further expansion of facilities and teams in 

with new connected devices such as iPads. 

Asia

Consolidating products and services has also 

(cid:96)  71 new engineers added worldwide, and 

delivered savings, such as a single interface to 

(cid:96)  24 patents granted. 

clients using multiple Irdeto products, resulting  

in better margins.

Irdeto applied Cloakware technology to the 

products and services of major global brands 

for online ecosystems, such as Logitech, Sony 

Internet TV, D-Link and Softbank Mobile. A new 

security service, ActiveCloak™, was launched 

to dynamically manage digital assets across 

their lifecycles. These include video, games and 

e-publications distributed online to  

multiple devices.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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Operational review (continued)

Print media

Revenue*

EBITDA*

Trading profit*

R’m

12 000

10 000

8 000

6 000

4 000

2 000

0

R’m

1 500

1 200

900

600

300

0

R’m

1 000

800

600

400

200

0

2010
* including associates on a proportionate basis

2011

2010
* including associates on a proportionate basis

2011

2010
* including associates on a proportionate basis

2011

SOUTH AFRICA 

The South African print media 

interests are held in Media24.

Revenue growth was recorded, with advertising 

revenue improving modestly. However, trading 

profi t and EBITDA declined in part due to 

the implementation of a new enterprise 

resource planning (ERP) system.

Newspapers

Media24 Newspapers continued to optimise 

the structure of its businesses. Cost savings were 

achieved through improved effi ciency, and there 

was a strong focus on the quality of content. The 

division’s central investigative reporting team was 

expanded and secured several scoops during the 

year. However, newspaper subscriptions were 

affected by severe implementation problems with 

the abovementioned ERP system.

Subscribe to Rapport

62

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The Sunday newspaper, 

City Press, was redesigned and 

its editor-in-chief won the National 

Press Club’s editor of the year award. 

Sake24, our Afrikaans broadsheet 

business section, increased 

readership after being refocused. 

Our medium-term goal is to 

rebuild the profi tability of this division 

through cost management and market 

development, while sharpening our 

focus on editorial excellence.

24.com, the largest internet 

publisher in South Africa, has 

been repositioned in the Media24 

newspaper division to ensure these 

brands can capitalise on opportunities 

provided by the rapidly growing mobile and 

tablet markets. 24.com grew monthly visitors 

by some 40% across its network of sites. 

Magazines 

Muted conditions for the global magazine 

industry continued. We started developing 

digital businesses based on our magazine 

content.

Our editorial teams continued to boost their 

standing in the local industry. In addition to 

individual editors and journalists winning several 

national awards, Media24 Magazines led the 

prestigious annual Pica Awards (page 91). 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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Operational review Print media (continued)

Paarl Media 

The Paarl Media group has streamlined 

its operations while increasing its 

footprint to include one more factory 

in KwaZulu-Natal. Technical and 

machinery upgrades were undertaken 

in all nine facilities. As a result, Paarl 

Coldset became the first African 

member of the prestigious Wan-

IFRA Quality Club.

A distribution network, Shoppers 

Friend, has been established in 

Gauteng, offering retailers direct 

access to consumers.

Paarl Media has significantly 

increased its footprint in Africa.

Book publishing

Jonathan Ball Publishers is the leading 

NB Publishers group 

increased its market share 

among South African trade 

publishers and remains 

the leading domestic trade 

publisher. Other highlights 

included 35 literary awards 

won by NB Publishers and its 

authors during the year. 

The educational publishers 

were less successful, 

except for Via Afrika Smile, 

which benefited from higher 

demand for supplementary 

educational material. 

Subsequent to year-end 

Media24 entered into an 

agreement to sell its stake in 

certain educational businesses 

supplier of general books to the South African 

in the Via Afrika group. The agreement is 

market. 

subject to conditions.

64

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Look and learn

BRAZIL 

The group has a 30% interest in Abril, the leading 

magazine publisher in Brazil. Abril has a 45% share of 

Brazilian magazine circulation and 64% of the magazine 

advertising market. During the year four new titles were 

launched. The printing and distribution businesses were 

stable. Late in 2010 Abril acquired a majority stake in the 

leading Brazilian indoor screen display business, Elimidia.

CHINA 

The group has minority stakes in Xin’an Media 

Corporation, a newspaper publisher in the fast-

growing second-tier city Anhui in Hebei province, 

as well as in BMC, which operates a leading Beijing 

newspaper, the Beijing Youth Daily.

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Non-fi nancial review

Social review

Naspers takes its responsibility to the communities in which it 

operates seriously. We promote the well-being of society, our 

customers and our employees, by contributing to initiatives that 

improve quality of life in these communities.

HOW WE DO THIS

Community

(cid:96)(cid:3)We encourage employees to report areas 

where the group might be failing in its 

(cid:96)  We operate in various countries and 

business conduct and values through 

endeavour, where feasible, to employ local 

secure channels.

citizens.

(cid:96)(cid:3)We endeavour to comply with local 

(cid:96)(cid:3)We contribute to the communities in which 

employment laws.

we live and work. In some we contribute to 

educational programmes.

(cid:96)(cid:3)We conduct business fairly, ethically and with 

integrity. Our code of ethics defi nes our 

culture.

(cid:96)(cid:3)In South Africa we support previously 

disadvantaged businesses by actively seeking 

such suppliers.

Our people 

(cid:96)(cid:3)We invest in the continuous development of 

our people.

(cid:96)(cid:3)We encourage our employees to contribute 

to sustainability and innovation initiatives.

(cid:96)(cid:3)We respect the rights of our employees and 

their diversity.

66

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Transformation

Transformation is a strategic imperative for 

Department of Trade and Industry’s code of 

Naspers to ensure we comply with local 

good practice for broad-based black economic 

legislation and that our workforces reflect local 

empowerment (BBBEE). Media24 retained its level 4 

demographics. Across the group, there are 

status on its BEE scorecard with a recognition  

various initiatives to develop appropriate skills 

level of 125% by virtue of it being rated as a  

and responsible procurement practices.

value-added supplier. 

Eight years ago Media24 established a 

MultiChoice maintained its status as a  

transformation forum to monitor elements  

level 4 contributor, further investing in employment 

of the South African black economic 

equity, skills development and preferential 

empowerment scorecard. The forum  

procurement. After its successful empowerment 

includes senior management from each  

transaction in 2006, when 120 000 new 

business unit. 

shareholders were introduced, the group has 

In recent years Media24 has made 

maximum points in shareholding on the scorecard. 

progress with its transformation aims. These 

MultiChoice also scores well on employment  

are monitored against a scorecard for the 

equity (75%) and preferential procurement (87%). 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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Non-financial review (continued)

Direct empowerment

Broad-based black economic empowerment 

Yizani and the scheme was extended by two years 

(BBBEE)

PHUTHUMA NATHI

to December 2013. This proactive step has given 

Welkom Yizani shareholders a better opportunity to 

profit from their original investment. 

Through a combination of shareholding in Naspers 

and the Phuthuma Nathi share schemes, black 

Black economic empowerment partners

South African individuals and groups own 30% of 

Media24, MultiChoice and other group companies 

MultiChoice South Africa. The Phuthuma  

have combined their buying power in South 

Nathi 1 and 2 share schemes were launched in 

Africa in a centralised bargaining company, 

2006 and 2007 respectively. Since inception, 

CommerceZone. Suppliers’ BEE performance is 

the share schemes have received over R1bn in 

evaluated against specific criteria and they are 

dividends and were used to reduce debt. As the 

expected to boost their annual BEE rating.

debt is reduced, the value of Phuthuma Nathi grows.

The MultiChoice preferential procurement 

In terms of the scheme rules, Phuthuma Nathi 

programme supports the development of small, 

shares can be traded after a five-year lock-up 

medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs). In 

period. The lock-up period for Phuthuma Nathi 1 

addition, these SMMEs are given opportunities to 

ends in December 2011 and for Phuthuma Nathi 2 

tackle larger-scale projects, enabling entrepreneurs 

in March 2012.

to develop their skills and capabilities. The last 

At launch, MultiChoice announced it would use 

three years have seen a lifting of MultiChoice’s 

its best endeavours to provide a trading platform for 

preferential procurement spend – from 47% in 2009 

Phuthuma Nathi shares once the five-year lock-up 

to 87% in 2011 on BEE-compliant companies. This 

period ends. We are developing such a platform.

equates to over R4bn spent with BEE-compliant 

companies.

WELKOM YIZANI 

In addition to its own empowerment initiatives, 

In 2006 Media24 launched the biggest BBBEE share 

MultiChoice buys large numbers of decoders from 

offer in the print media industry, Welkom Yizani, 

a local manufacturer. This has created employment 

resulting in eligible black people and groups owning 

opportunities in the areas of manufacture, logistics 

some 25% (directly and indirectly) in Media24 

and sales. MultiChoice has 113 agencies, all 

Holdings. In December 2009 to mitigate the impact 

owner-managed businesses. About 28 of these are 

of the recession on the value of these shares, 

owned by black individuals. R24m was invested in 

Naspers wrote off R330m of its funding in Welkom 

this project in the past year.

68

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Furthermore, enterprise development initiatives 

have created more than 1 500 jobs across the 

Paarl Media group.

Employees

MultiChoice plays an important role in economic 

growth in Africa, contributing directly and indirectly 

to job creation. Some 5 000 jobs were created by 

us in the past 18 months in South Africa alone, 

with indirect employment representing 44% of 

the growth. Learnerships comprise 16% of direct 

employment, ensuring skills development in the 

informal sector. The major area of employment 

creation in the indirect market stems from additional 

staff in agencies, larger installer teams, content 

creation and facilities maintenance and upgrades.

Employment equity 

Naspers values diversity in its workforce. The 

breakdown of the group’s annual employment 

equity reports, reflecting classifications to the South 

African Department of Labour, is shown below. 

Number 
of employees

20 000

15 000

10 000

5 000

0

15 932

12 958

2010

2011

Distribution of employees

17%

25%

3%

11%

44%

(cid:116)  MultiChoice SA
(cid:116)  Media24
(cid:116)  Allegro
(cid:116)  BuscaPé
(cid:116) Other operations

Media24’s workforce

MultiChoice’s workforce

2%

54%

2011

44%

21%

2011

79%

(cid:116) Disabled

 (cid:116) White

 (cid:116) Black

 (cid:116) White

 (cid:116) Black

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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Non-financial review Employees (continued)

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS 

Retirement benefits

EMPLOYEE RELATIONS 

The group complies with labour legislation in its 

Some countries in which we operate have 

areas of operation. In South Africa, MultiChoice 

statutory retirement benefit funding. In others, and 

and Media24 submit statutory reports. 

where appropriate, the group provides retirement 

The risk of child labour and forced or 

benefits for full-time employees, primarily as 

compulsory labour is low in the group. Where 

monthly contributions to defined-contribution 

children are used in local productions, strict 

pension and provident funds. The assets of these 

compliance to their regulated conditions of 

funds are generally held in separate trustee-

employment is enforced. 

administered funds. 

TRAINING AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT 

Investing in skills development is a priority for 

the group, given the strategic importance of 

technology and intellectual property to our 

sustainability in a competitive market. 

In the review period, MultiChoice spent 

over R17m on skills development initiatives. 

Medical aid benefits

These include the New Managers Programme, 

Medical aid membership is compulsory in most 

Management Advancement Programme 

group operations, with the employer contributing 

and Media Management Programme, which 

a portion of the monthly premium.

cover training from supervisory to executive 

Some group companies provide post-

management levels. 

retirement healthcare benefits. This entitlement is 

As technology is at the core of MultiChoice’s 

based on an employee remaining in service until 

business, skills development is multifaceted. The 

retirement age and completing a minimum service 

company’s learnership programmes combine 

period. 

vocational education and training modules 

towards qualifications registered on the National 

Equity ownership

Qualifications Framework (NQF). 

To retain the skills on which our sustainability 

During the year MultiChoice filled 249 

depends, most group companies grant share 

learnership and internship positions, covering 

options/share appreciation rights to employees 

customer care, DStv Online, finance, human 

under a number of equity compensation plans. 

resources, broadcast technology and IT. These 

70

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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programmes give prospective and new graduates 

the administrative skills base in sports bodies in 

experience in the real world. Some of the 

Africa. Since its inception in 2006, 120 sports 

programmes implemented in our businesses were 

administrators have graduated. 

as follows:

Already entrenched as a world-class initiative, 

(cid:96)(cid:3)38 engineering and technical positions at 

SuperSport expanded the programme to Nigeria in 

M-Net 

2010, working with WBS and the Nigerian National 

(cid:96)(cid:3)10 positions at SuperSport for practical 

Sports Commission to focus on major event 

involvement in production areas, and 

management, leadership, corporate governance 

(cid:96)(cid:3)46 positions for leadership and technical areas 

and strategy. To date 20 graduates have benefited.

at MWEB.

Over the past year SuperSport has boosted 

MultiChoice awarded 51 bursaries in 2011, 

its training in Nigeria and Kenya, particularly 

bringing total bursaries awarded since 2008  

transferring television production skills to increase 

to 161. 

the talent pool of qualified crew. The Gain Insight 

SuperSport’s partnership with Wits Business 

From Training (GIFT) programme helps students 

School (WBS) has contributed to expanding 

develop skills in television production. At present  

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Non-fi nancial review Employees (continued)

69 students are enrolled. In addition, 15 trainee 

crew members from Kenya and Nigeria joined their 

South African counterparts for hands-on training 

from SuperSport’s highly skilled production crew, 

including during the 2010 Fifa World Cup.

Media24 invested some R23m in the current 

fi nancial year to develop employees at various 

levels. This included R9m to train current and 

future journalists at its Journalism Academy, 

producing 24 graduates in the past year. 

Benefi ciaries of the academy programme, 

some of whom are still enrolled, included:

(cid:96)(cid:3)13 bursary holders (three black, three coloured 

and seven white) 

following extensive research and development. 

(cid:96)(cid:3)16 Academy interns (seven black, one coloured 

In addition to the technical programmes, the 

and eight white), and 

academy offers Paarl Media employees skills and 

(cid:96)(cid:3)eight post-bursary interns (two white, two 

leadership courses. To enhance management 

black, three coloured and one Indian). 

Media24 also awarded 229  

bursaries to employees for 

part-time studies in 2011.

Following a study 

of overseas training 

programmes, Paarl 

Media has taken the lead in 

developing a world-class training 

facility, the Paarl Media Academy 

of Print. The outdated trade 

training curriculum 

has been 

replaced by new 

apprenticeship programmes, 

72

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

skills in the industry, Paarl Media’s leadership 

development programme (through business 

schools of Stellenbosch, Wits and other 

institutions) concentrates 

on developing people 

at all management 

levels (supervisory 

to executive). The 

leadership pipeline 

programme ensures 

potential leaders are 

identifi ed for further 

advancement and future 

management positions. 

The academy, an Institute of 

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Sectoral and Occupational Excellence (ISOE), 

the Junior Staff Exchange programme. This 

is an accredited training provider with MAPPP/

programme gave 10 talented technologists the 

FPM Seta. It has been awarded international 

opportunity to spend three months at other 

accreditation by City & Guilds, Britian’s leading 

Naspers companies.  

vocational awarding body. 

MIH also recognises the importance of 

In our international businesses, mainly internet 

retaining its experienced technologists and 

operations, we aim to attract young engineers. 

engineers. By recognising a select group 

Training and development is thus key to our 

as MIH Distinguished Technologists, we 

strategy of operating leading internet platforms 

encourage senior engineers. The award includes 

in emerging markets. 

involvement in group-wide projects and was 

We create opportunities for young 

given to 11 technologists in 2011. 

entrepreneurs by sponsoring a technology 

Naspers also sponsors 30 students at 

incubator where 10 recent graduates are 

postgraduate level in new media studies at 

implementing their ideas for new businesses, 

Stellenbosch University. Graduates of the 

guided by experienced engineers and project 

Media Lab programme have been successfully 

managers.

employed in group companies. 

Internationally, young engineers and 

Irdeto stepped up its collaboration with some 

technologists are incentivised to further their 

20 universities worldwide through internships, 

careers in the MIH Internet group through 

joint research and summer schools.

CASE STUDY – SUPERSPORT IN KENYA 

SuperSport held a three-month training exercise in Kenya where South African crew participated in 

covering local football to give Kenyans practical experience in all fi elds of television production. 

We trained over 40 operators. After securing the use of the main stadium in Kenya and with assistance 

from the Kenyan Premier League, 

11 fi rst-division practice matches provided 

practical training for trainee crew members. 

Productions were recorded and reviewed in the 

classroom to show trainees what they 

did well and where they needed to improve.

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Non-fi nancial review (continued)

Corporate citizenship

COMMUNITIES
The group is active in its communities, focusing on literacy and educational 
programmes in Africa. 

Given the nature of its business, MultiChoice plays a key role in its communities. 
Aiming to achieve a sustainable impact on the country’s socio-economic 
challenges, MultiChoice companies have implemented various initiatives.

Project 

Benefi ciaries

Community development 
initiatives

Invested over R50m in donations and 
airtime. 

Apex Awards

Industry skills development

l

i

s
e
a
S
a
d
e
M
v
t
S
D
d
n
a

t
e
N
-
M

74

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

Recognising excellent results by advertisers 
and agencies. In addition, over 30 charities 
and NGOs received free airtime to create 
awareness of various social causes.

(cid:96)  Vuka Awards encourage pro bono public 
service announcements for charities and 
social causes. Over 170 entries were 
received and 25 fi nalists’ work broadcast 
on M-Net channels. 

(cid:96)  New Directions is targeted at directors 

and scriptwriters – 75 entries were 
received in 2010. Two fi lms and one 
documentary produced will premiere on 
Mzansi Magic.

(cid:96)  EDit gives emerging fi lm and television 

students real-life production opportunities. 
Three reality pilots will be explored for 
development and broadcasting on 
Mzansi Magic.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Project 
Project 

Benefi ciaries
Benefi ciaries

Naledi

Gogo Magic

)

d
e
u
n
i
t
n
o
c

(

Breast cancer awareness

i

l

s
e
a
S
a
d
e
M
v
t
S
D
d
n
a

t
e
N
-
M

Teaching grade 3 children to read and write. 
(cid:96)  300 children in six schools in Gauteng and 

Western Cape benefi ted in 2010. 

Creates employment for disadvantaged 
individuals by knitting beanies which are 
distributed to orphans and vulnerable children.
(cid:96)  593 jobs from six communities in Gauteng 
and Limpopo were created and 28 000 
beanies distributed to children around the 
country.

Financial support for trucks providing education 
and testing for breast cancer in rural areas:
(cid:96)  1 365 women received mammography tests
(cid:96)  7 435 clinical breast examinations performed
(cid:96)  11 205 individuals received breast cancer  

education, and 

(cid:96)  27 000 pieces of educational material 

 distributed.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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Non-fi nancial review Corporate citizenship (continued)

Project 

Benefi ciaries

t
r
o
p
S
r
e
p
u
S

B
E
W
M

i

e
c
o
h
C

i
t
l
u
M

My 2010 Schools Adventure

Reducing crime in schools 
through sports skills 
development

Internet cafés and computer 
training centres in townships

Film Talent Incubator

Introduced three additional 
orphanages

Partnered with 2010 Fifa World Cup 
and Department of Basic Education in a 
programme with 7 500 schools.

Partnered with Unicef and Department 
of Basic Education on a programme 
to reduce crime and increase school 
attendance through sport.
(cid:96) 450 schools were reached.

Donated R700 000 to Silulo Ulothu 
Technologies to assist opening more 
internet cafés and computer training 
centres in townships. 
(cid:96)  Centres in Athlone, Blue Downs and  

Gugulethu.

  Skills and mentorship opportunities to
up-and-coming fi lm-makers through an
intensive hands-on course. 
  (cid:96)   To date the fi lm industry has gained
64 skilled professionals who are
gainfully employed. 

  (cid:96)  About R20m invested in this programme.

MultiChoice assisted three orphanages 
in three provinces (North West, Northern 
Cape and Mpumalanga) as part of its 
programme to support orphaned children.
  (cid:96)  To date 10 residential facilities nationally 

and over 1 000 children assisted.

76

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Project 

Benefi ciaries

Expanding computer labs in 
schools

)

d
e
u
n
i
t
n
o
c

(

i

e
c
o
h
C

i
t
l
u
M

  MultiChoice Make a 
Difference (MMAD)

Reach Out

Media development

a
c
i
r
f
A

i

e
c
o
h
C

i
t
l
u
M

 Multimedia laboratories were installed in 
eight schools in Eastern Cape,  Free State 
and Northern Cape. The laboratories 
included computers,  internet connectivity, 
 televisions and free DStv education 
content.  To ensure impact,  teachers have 
been trained in managing the resource and 
integrating technology into teaching. 
  (cid:96)  Through this programme over 28 000  
learners have access to computers.

Employee involvement and volunteering in 
community development. 
(cid:96)  Over 1 100 employees touched the lives 
of some 2 000 community members.

DStv subscribers can get involved through 
the Reach Out programme by nominating 
their favourite social causes for a fi nancial 
contribution from MultiChoice. 
(cid:96)  In 2010 the following homes received 
support: Ikhaya Le Themba, SAVF 
Belfast Kinderhuis, Knysna Education 
Trust and Mother of Peace orphanage.

MultiChoice partners with CNN to 
produce the CNN MultiChoice African 
Journalist of the Year awards. The 2010 
event was held in Uganda in May and 
attended by President Museveni.

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Non-fi nancial review Corporate citizenship (continued)

MultiChoice has developed a social investment 

strategy aligned to its aims. This will contribute 

to broader South African transformation. The 

strategy focuses on generating skills critical for 

MultiChoice’s industry and consolidates its social 

programmes into a single vehicle, DStv Be More. 

Launched in 2005 SuperSport’s Let’s Play 

received the best Social Responsibility in Sport 

partnerships with, among others, Unicef, and the 

prize at the Virgin Active Sport Industry Awards 

departments of Basic Education and of Sport 

for 2010. Let’s Play encourages primary school 

and Recreation. During the 2010 Fifa World Cup, 

children to participate in sport and has forged 

Let’s Play partnered with the Local Organising 

CASE STUDY – SUPERSPORT’S 
INVOLVEMENT IN AFRICAN FOOTBALL 
LEAGUES

SuperSport is involved with the soccer federations in 

Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia, Angola, Ghana and Uganda. In some 

cases, the fees SuperSport pays for rights to broadcast the 

local soccer games constitutes as much as 75% of their 

revenue. Our football consultant, Stanley Matthews, conducts 

regular workshops which improve corporate governance, 

administration and management of the leagues. SuperSport 

assists with managing their websites and employs and 

upskills locals and invests heavily in infrastructure such as 

studios, outside broadcasting vans and the like. We help 

the leagues to secure sponsorships and allow them to 

participate in an exchange programme with the German 

Bundesliga, where administrators, players and journalists 

attend workshops in Germany. Spectator attendances have 

increased rapidly since SuperSport became involved in the 

federations, with Kenya as an example increasing on average 

from 2 000 to 20 000 spectators per match.

78

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

Committee and the Department of Basic 

Education in the My 2010 Schools Adventure 

programme involving 7 500 schools. Through the 

Let’s Play a Million project, 220 000 soccer balls 

were distributed to schools and communities 

throughout the country.

MultiChoice, in partnership with ministries 

of education in African countries, established 

MultiChoice Resource Centres as a learning tool 

for learners in under-resourced schools. Nine 

hundred of these centres are now operational in 

28 countries – 172 new centres were rolled out 

in the past fi nancial year. MultiChoice provides 

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and installs decoders, televisions and DVD 

community projects throughout South Africa 

recorders. The DStv Educational bouquet is 

focused on welfare, health and education. In 

provided free to MultiChoice Resource Centres. 

addition, its newspapers and magazines provided 

The bouquet comprises eight educational 

free editorial and advertising space to create 

channels: History, National Geographic, National 

awareness and harness support for a number of 

Geographic Wild, BBC World, BBC Knowledge, 

socio-economic issues in the country.

Discovery, Mindset Learn and Animal Planet. In 

addition, educators in these schools are trained 

to integrate this educational programming into 

curricula.

Media24 wants all South Africans to read. 

Accordingly, the company has invested in 

numerous projects that educate, uplift and 

develop, especially as regards literacy. In the 

past year Media24 invested some R13m in 

  Project 

Literacy

Volunteers24

Rachel’s Angels Empowerment Trust

Benefi ciaries

Move! Best Parent collaborated with Project Literacy 
to roll out a series of adult literacy and training 
programmes.

Media24’s employee volunteers supported a number 
of initiatives, including renovating preprimary and 
primary school classrooms in the Western Cape and 
Gauteng. Awareness campaigns and fundraising 
drives supported the National Cancer Association, 
Heart and Stroke Foundation, Epilepsy Society and 
Red Cross Society.

Media24’s mentorship programme, Rachel’s 
Angels, is now in its fi fth year, with 20 participating 
schools and 140 mentors from Stellenbosch 
University providing mentorship and career advice 
to senior learners from these schools.

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Non-fi nancial review Corporate citizenship (continued)

(cid:96)  Supports the International Federation of the 

Red Cross and Red Crescent societies for food 

security programmes.

(cid:96)  Implemented a food tent at The House 

orphanage in Berea that provides nutritional 

food and skills development.

(cid:96)  Provided fi nancial support and blankets to The 

Haven Care Centre.

(cid:96)  Sponsored a vehicle for Amado, an 

organisation that empowers disabled children 

through animal-assisted therapy.

(cid:96)  Donated school clothes, stationery and food to 

Prissked Charities.

(cid:96)  Provided support to the Carel du Toit 

Centre, which cares for children with hearing 

disabilities.

(cid:96)  Contributes annually to the Paarl Post 

Christmas fundraising project in aid of the 

Western Cape Community Chest.

(cid:96)  Subsidised printing for the Society of the Blind 

and Tsiba College.

(cid:96)  Assisted Monte Christo Ministries with feeding 

schemes at schools, soup kitchens and 

hospitals.

(cid:96)  Continuously donates to the National 

Sea Rescue Institute and SOS Children’s 

Village.

Paarl Media is active in its communities at both 

social and environmental levels. Some of its current 

projects include:

(cid:96)  Established a R10m bursary trust for previously

disadvantaged students from the Paarl 

community.

(cid:96)  Assisted the Miqlat learning centre in Paarl East 

with learning and computer resources.

(cid:96)   Sponsors printing of The Big Issue, whose vendors 

are mainly unemployed people from informal 

settlements on the outskirts of Cape Town.

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COMMUNITY BENEFIT

MultiChoice reaches out to the local 

communities in which it operates, supporting 

initiatives such as disaster relief donations in 

Uganda for the victims of mudslides in the 

eastern part of that country and Farmer’s Day 

celebrations in Ghana. 

In Nigeria, MultiChoice supports the Sickle 

(cid:96)  Partnered with the Paarl Mountain Project to 

Cell Foundation. We provide vehicles and 

create employment opportunities in clearing the 

advocacy support for the foundation by using 

mountain of alien vegetation.

our platform to create awareness about the 

(cid:96)  Provided fi nancial assistance to Helping Hand 

disease and provide information on treatment.

SA, a missionary organisation that distributes 

In some businesses where we have minority 

food, clothing and other goods to the poor.

investments, valuable work is also being done.

National Sickle Cell Centre, Lagos

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Non-fi nancial review Corporate citizenship (continued)

employees founded the Tencent Volunteers’ 

Association, which has more than 1 000 

members. Among these are middle- and 

high-ranking management headed by the chief 

executive offi cer and the core backbone of 

various departments. They use their spare time 

to implement projects funded by the Tencent 

Charity Foundation. These include educational 

development and university talent development 

projects. Other activities include help to the 

(cid:96)  The Tencent Charity Foundation donated 

elders, safe internet surfi ng training for young 

almost RMB10m (R10,4m) to construct school 

people and donating clothing to disaster 

buildings, dormitories and other infrastructure 

regions.

to improve local educational quality and 

(cid:96)  In the Philippines, Sulit joined the Bayan-Anihan 

school conditions in poor regions. Tencent 

(“community harvest”) movement, a partnership 

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between the Department of Agriculture and 

year) by running charity auctions on 

Gawad Kalinga anti-poverty organisation. This 

www.ricardo.ch, supported by promotional 

movement aims to address the pressing issue 

marketing and employee volunteers. Ricardo 

of hunger in the Philippines. To mark its fourth 

also supported fundraising for the international 

anniversary, Sulit organised the SULITulungan 

Red Cross. Artworks incorporating a red cross 

project – 23 employees and some 40 members 

created by prominent people were auctioned 

of the Sulit community built a farm and 

on www.ricardo.ch. This project received the 

provided sustainable living for families from a 

prestigious Swiss Dialogue Marketing 

village in Laguna region. 

Prize 2011.

Health and 
safety

(cid:96)  Each year Level Up! uses viral marketing and 

celebrity endorsements to encourage gamers to 

donate blood in its Life Quest project, working 

with the Apro Sangue Institute. To mark Tree 

Day, Level Up! hosts a quiz on its website, with 

player participation supporting the company’s 

donation of some 200 trees to Tropical Flora.

(cid:96)  OLX Argentina runs a computer donation 

(cid:96)  We aim to have an injury-free workplace. 

programme to help schools, charities and not-

(cid:96)  We perform health and safety risk 

for-profi t organisations (NPOs) in their focus on 

assessments at our facilities, supported by 

education. Twelve organisations benefi ted from 

training.

donations of computers and laptops in good 

(cid:96)  We monitor management’s actions through 

condition. In addition, OLX supports numerous 

operational, internal and external auditing and 

NPOs focused on education, literacy, 

reporting processes.

vulnerable children and people with disabilities.

(cid:96)  A healthy workforce contributes to business 

(cid:96)  Ricardo participates in the largest 

fundraising activity in Switzerland, 

success. Several of our businesses provide 

medical aid and wellness programmes for 

Jeder Rappen zählt, (before Christmas each 

their staff.

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Non-financial review Health and safety (continued)

backgrounds and receive training from Media24 

on executing their jobs safely and effectively. 

The nature of the print business, which owns 

and manages distribution networks and printing 

facilities, makes it the area in the Naspers group 

with the greatest inherent risk for injuries on duty. 

MONITORING 

The Media24 safety, health and environment 

committee, a subcommittee of the board, 

monitors related issues in the Media24 group. 

THE WORKPLACE

Implementing a healthy, safe workplace 

at both administrative and production 

facilities is a priority. Our aim is the lowest 

Media24 and MultiChoice conduct annual health, 

possible harm rate on duty. Where required, 

safety and environmental compliance audits 

health and safety committees – comprising 

as well as building scans. Injuries on duty are 

responsible, trained individuals – ensure 

stringently monitored. 

regulatory compliance. Appropriate medical 

Tragically, a fire at Paarl Print in April 2009 

emergency and disaster-recovery plans have 

caused 13 deaths and serious injuries to four 

been devised for operating businesses. 

people, the worst in the group’s history. We 

Annual occupational health and safety 

deeply regret this loss of life and injury and our 

risk-control audits or reviews are conducted 

thoughts are still with those families. Group 

by operational entities across the group and 

companies assisted the families financially, 

improvements implemented as required. 

paying out almost R7m. A formal inquiry into 

Significant matters are reported to and 

the Paarl Print fire, in terms of Section 32 of 

monitored by the Naspers risk committee. 

the Occupational Health and Safety Act, was 

Media24’s distribution and printing 

operations make extensive use of 

contractors and organisers. Most of 

completed in June 2010. A report has 

been prepared in terms of this act, and 

based on information received from the 

these are from previously disadvantaged 

Department of Labour it is anticipated 

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that this report will be made available in the 

MultiChoice offers a range of wellness and 

foreseeable future. Further information indicates 

balanced lifestyle services to all employees on 

that the report has been referred to the National 

site, plus a Montessori nursery school for its 

Prosecuting Authority for further action. Once the 

Randburg employees.

report has been made available, it is possible that 

Media24 has a wellness centre at its Cape 

third parties may pursue civil claims against the 

Town offi ces and certain printing facilities. Health 

company. Paarl Print’s exposure in this regard, 

services include hypertension and diabetes 

after insurance reimbursement, is not expected 

testing, free HIV/Aids counselling and testing, 

to be material. We also assisted the families to 

and a number of risk-control programmes. 

submit claims under 

the Compensation for 

Occupational Injuries 

and Diseases Act, 

1993. 

WELLNESS

Several wellness 

programmes are 

operated by group 

subsidiaries in a 

preventative approach 

to employee health. 

These range from 

programmes to stop 

smoking to HIV/Aids 

tests. Regular medical, 

eye and hearing tests are performed 

on drivers and staff exposed to noise. 

Professional and independent psychosocial 

support is provided for staff in businesses.

Ongoing wellness support 

is provided by mobile clinics 

throughout the company. 

HIV/AIDS

We are acutely aware of 

the HIV/Aids pandemic in 

Africa, and its social and 

economic implications. 

Comprehensive 

programmes in Media24, 

MultiChoice South Africa 

and MultiChoice sub-

Saharan Africa outside 

South Africa comprise: 

(cid:96)  information and 

  awareness 

  campaigns 

(cid:96)  voluntary free testing 

(cid:96)  free counselling, and 

(cid:96)  comprehensive medical 

treatment programmes.

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Non-fi nancial review (continued)

Environment

Through improvement and sustainable technological innovation, Naspers 
strives to create solutions that minimise its impact on the environment.

HOW WE DO THIS

(cid:96)  We use environmentally sustainable resources 

(cid:96)  We perform risk assessments identifying 

to meet our operational needs, and conserve 

operations where our direct impact on the 

non-renewable natural resources.

environment is most signifi cant.

(cid:96)  Where possible, we use environmentally 

(cid:96)  We try using advanced technologies to reduce 

responsible energy sources, invest in improving 

the impact on the environment.

energy effi ciency and design energy-effi cient 

(cid:96)  Our printing operations apply leading 

facilities.

emission-reduction technology to minimise 

(cid:96)  We aim to infl uence our suppliers to adopt a 

and responsibly dispose of waste.

similar approach in supplying materials and 

(cid:96)  We monitor environmental compliance 

services.

standards at our facilities and participate in 

third-party reviews.

Naspers’s South African operations measured 

(cid:96)  We measure and report on our carbon footprint.

their gross carbon footprint with respect to 

(cid:96)  We respond to situations where operations 

scope 1 and 2 emissions for the second year 

have had an adverse effect on the 

in accordance with the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) 

environment.

protocol. 

THE GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) PROTOCOL 
is an accounting tool used by business and governments. It was 

created in 2001 when the World Resources Institute and the World 

Business Council for Sustainable Development identifi ed a need 

for consistency in how organisations accounted and reported 

emissions and together introduced the new standard.

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The largest contributor to direct emissions 

remains electricity. Given that the primary 

source of electricity in South Africa is coal, 

South African operations

which has a higher emission rate, electricity 

131 522 859

accounts for 100% of scope 2 emissions (95% 

kWh

of total emissions). 

Continuous supply of good quality electricity 

is vital to the continuity of our operations. The 

group installed generators at some facilities to 

ensure continuous supply of electricity, hence 

mitigating the risk of disruptions.

The gross carbon footprint (scope 1 and 2) 

is 141 081 (2010: 129 760) tonnes of CO2e. 
The group measured direct emissions at some 

12 locations across South Africa and will focus 

on refi ning the process of collecting complete 

123 105

6 655

2010

119 833 655

133 692

7 389

2011

Scope 1 CO2 tonnes

Scope 2 CO2 tonnes

Electricity usage

sets of data in the coming year. The printing 

During the past year our usage of electricity 

operations contribute 59% to the total carbon 

decreased by 9%, whilst the GHG emission factor 

emissions of the group.

for electricity increased by 10%.

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Non-financial review Environment (continued)

Greenhouse gases

Community outreach initiatives were also 

3%

38%

implemented:

(cid:96)  installing solar-powered traffic lights around the 

MultiChoice campus in Randburg

(cid:96)  installing e-waste bins for customers and 

employees to safely dispose of obsolete 

electronic devices such as decoders, remote 

59%

controls, PCs etcetera, and 

(cid:116) Logistics
(cid:116) Printing plants

(cid:116) Office buildings

(cid:96)  Allegro in Poland has several initiatives under its 

All For Planet Foundation (www.allforplanet.pl)  

designed to assist the local community in 

awareness in striving for a greener country, 

as well as making certain investments in the 

GREENHOUSE GASES

environment.

The operations of Naspers are diverse, ranging 

from printing plants to transactional internet 

platforms offering entertainment or products. 

Each type of business has a unique effect on the 

environment, requiring different responses to limit 

these impacts.

In MultiChoice and Media24, a number of Think 

Green initiatives have been implemented to 

reduce our carbon footprint and support the 

sustainability campaign. 

Energy-efficiency initiatives introduced in 

the past year include:

(cid:96)  installing movement-activated lights 

(cid:96)  refurbishing air conditioners to reduce 

electricity consumption

(cid:96)  consolidating data centres, and 

(cid:96)  automatic hibernation of PCs. 

Waste management initiatives included:

(cid:96)  setting double-sided printing as a default to 

reduce paper consumed, and 

(cid:96)  recycling office waste in a more appropriate 

manner. 

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Printing facilities

Informative programming ensures viewers 

Paarl Media’s paper suppliers are based in South 

are encouraged to protect their immediate 

Africa and Europe. They continuously investigate 

environment.

options to limit their environmental impact while 

ensuring quality paper products are used in our 

Internet

publications. 

Internet platforms such as Allegro do more 

Paarl Media was the first African printing 

with less. Their core business includes online 

organisation to receive the Forest Stewardship 

shopping of pre-owned goods.

Council (FSC) chain-of-custody certification. 

Contributions are also made in companies 

This is an independent international verification 

where we have minority stakes. Tencent’s 

that printed products can be traced back from 

Volunteers’ Association, with over 1 000 

their point of origin to responsible, well-managed 

employees, has held numerous tree-planting 

forestry, controlled and recycled sources. 

activities to build Tencent Green Forests in the 

Paarl Media offers clients a range of 

past five years. Tencent volunteers have planted 

environmentally sustainable paper, leading 

over 1 000 trees.

the South African print industry in recognising 

the impact of print-production processes on 

The environmental impact of our international 

businesses is limited mainly to the use of 

natural resources and implementing practices 

electricity.

to eliminate emissions. The Paarl Media group 

focuses on reduction and recycles all paper not 

sold as part of the printed product to Mondi. 

Equipment in the upgraded Paarl Media Cape 

plant ensures that dust particles from the printing 

process are collected and recycled.

Media24 produces mainly books, magazines 

and newspapers. It recycles all unsold magazines 

and newspapers. It uses its magazines and 

newspapers as platforms to educate readers 

about lowering their impact on the environment.

Pay television

Decoders are sourced from reputable suppliers 

with a commitment to protect the environment.

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Non-financial review Environment (continued)

CASE STUDY – ALL FOR PLANET FOUNDATION

Allegro established its All For Planet Foundation in  

November 2008 to encourage communities to think  

green every day. It combines ecology with design  

and music to revitalise public spaces through 

sustainable design and city transport: 

(cid:96)  Bicycle racks supporting the sustainable  

  concept by:

  (cid:116) promoting bikes as environmentally  

  friendly transport

  (cid:116) combining design and usability

  (cid:116) encouraging public opinion to discuss  

  city transport

  (cid:116) supporting talented young Polish  

  designers, and

  (cid:116) presenting a unique approach to  

  ecology projects in Poland.

(cid:96)  Green backyards initiative encourages 

local communities to take the ecology  

initiative, starting small by changing  

their own backyards. Each year Allegro 

selects five backyards from hundreds of  

applications sent in from all over the 

country. 

(cid:96)  Recycling music creates musical instruments from used 

advertising materials and barrels. Recently, the initiative was 

recognised by Guinness World Records for the largest orchestra 

playing on recycled instruments at the XVI Woodstock Festival.

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Regulatory environment 
and fi nes

The group received no signifi cant fi nes for non-

some fi nes from the self-regulatory body, the 

compliance in the past year. 

Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South 

Because MultiChoice operates in a highly 

Africa. These relate to incorrect scheduling of 

regulated environment in South Africa, 

content due to human error and steps were 

compliance is important. The company 

taken to correct this.

participates in the regulatory process affecting 

In the past year there were no environmental 

the communications industry through various 

accidents nor were any environment-related 

public forums and debates, giving inputs on 

fi nes imposed by any government. The group 

formulating standards and strategies for this 

will continue to refi ne its processes for managing 

industry. MultiChoice and M-Net received 

its impact on the environment.

Awards

Some of the prominent awards received by 
our group companies:

(cid:96)  ibibo

  Star Youth Icon award at the third Global Youth Marketing 

  Awards 2011 for contributing to youth.

(cid:96)  Media24 Newspapers

  National Press Club Editor of the year 2010:

  City Press editor-in-chief, Ferial Haffajee.

(cid:96)  Media24 Magazines

  Excellent performance at annual Pica Awards:

(cid:3) (cid:116)  SARIE – Michélle van Breda, editor of the year 
(cid:3) (cid:116)  SARIE – consumer magazine of the year 
(cid:3) (cid:116)  Woolworths TASTE – published by New Media Publishing and 

commissioned by Woolworths – client magazine of the year.

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Non-fi nancial review Awards (continued)

(cid:96)  Paarl Media

  (cid:116)   First Africa member admitted to international WAN/IFRA Quality Club

(cid:3) (cid:116)  Acknowledged by Mondi and Sappi for printing work.

(cid:96)  NB Publishers

(cid:3) (cid:116)   Hertzog prize for fi ction – 30 Nagte in Amsterdam by Etienne 

   van Heerden (Tafelberg)

  (cid:116)   University of Johannesburg début prize for creative writing – 

Plaasmoord by Karin Brynard (Human & Rousseau)

(cid:3) (cid:116)   University of Johannesburg prize for creative writing – 

Reisiger by Elsa Joubert (Tafelberg)

(cid:3) (cid:116)  Alba Bouwer prize for children’s literature – In die nimmer-immer-bos

by Linda Rode, illustrated by Fiona Moodie (Tafelberg) 

(cid:3) (cid:116)  Commonwealth Writers’ Prize best book Africa region – The Double

Crown by Marié Heese.

(cid:96)  SuperSport

(cid:3) (cid:116)  Let’s Play judged South Africa’s best social responsibility in sport 

initiative at inaugural Virgin Active sport industry awards.

(cid:96)  MultiChoice

(cid:3) (cid:116)  Orange Index Awards – fi rst in telecommunication sector and fourth 

overall (evaluation of all companies providing customer services)

(cid:3) (cid:116)  Four Loerie Awards (evaluation of all creative media advertising

adjudicated by an expert panel)

(cid:3) (cid:116)  First in FinWeek radio campaign of the year (evaluation of radio

advertising by an expert panel)

(cid:3) (cid:116) 21 Generation X Top Teas (research on all South African brands) 

(cid:3) (cid:116) 12 Africa Promax Awards (Africa on-air creative marketing) 

(cid:3) (cid:116)  Four international Promax awards (international on-air 

creative marketing)

(cid:3) (cid:116)  First and joint second in Millward Brown (research company) ten

most-loved South African television ads.

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Corporate governance

E
C
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A
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O
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Conducting 
our business 
with integrity

 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Corporate governance

INTRODUCTION

APPLICATION OF AND APPROACH TO KING III

The board of directors conducts 

The board, its subcommittees, and the boards and 

the group’s business with integrity 

by applying appropriate corporate 

governance policies and practices.

Naspers is a multinational media group with 

operations in 131 countries including Africa, 

South America, Europe, China, India, south-east 

Asia and the USA. Its primary listing is on the 

JSE Limited (JSE). The company is therefore 

subject to the Listings Requirements of the JSE, 

the guidelines in the King Code and Report on 

Corporate Governance for South Africa 2009  

(King III), as well as legislation applying to 

publicly listed companies in South Africa. 

Naspers also has a secondary listing of its 

American Depository Shares (ADSs) on the 

London Stock Exchange (LSE).

Compliance with both the JSE and applicable 

LSE listings requirements is monitored by the 

audit and risk committees of the board. 

The board’s audit, risk, human resources 

and remuneration and nomination committees 

fulfil key roles in ensuring good corporate 

governance. The group uses independent 

subcommittees of subsidiaries MIH, MultiChoice 

and Media24 made good progress in embedding 

the appropriate principles and practices contained 

in King III. The Naspers board approved 

revised board and subcommittee charters. The 

responsibilities of the audit and risk committees 

were separated and new risk committees formed. 

Similar changes were approved by the boards of 

MIH, MultiChoice and Media24. A plan to address 

aspects of King III was approved and implemented 

for the in-scope entities for 2011.

A disciplined reporting structure ensures the 

Naspers board is fully apprised of subsidiary 

activities, risks and opportunities. All controlled 

entities in the group are required to subscribe 

to the relevant principles of King III. Business 

and governance structures have clear approval 

frameworks. The process to address the principles 

of King III has been a top-down and bottom-up 

approach. 

Naspers has an internal control oversight forum 

comprising the CFOs and risk and internal audit 

managers of Naspers, MIH, MultiChoice, Media24 

and the group company secretary and group 

general counsel. The forum was tasked to ensure 

external advisers to monitor regulatory 

the Naspers group’s governance structures and 

developments, locally and internationally, to 

framework and King III implementation plan were 

enable management to make recommendations 

rolled out to in-scope entities in the group during the 

to the Naspers board on matters of corporate 

financial year. Progress was monitored by the audit 

governance.

and risk committees and reported to the board.

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THE NASPERS  
THE NASPERS  
GROUP
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
PERFORMANCE
REVIEW
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION
INFORMATION

Set out below is a synopsis of changes to our governance framework during the past year:

New 
governance 
policies 
introduced

(cid:96)  Alternative dispute resolution policy

(cid:96)  Directors’ right to take independent professional advice policy

(cid:96)  Human resources and remuneration committee’s orientation policy

(cid:96)  Investor relations policy

(cid:96)  IT governance policy

(cid:96)  Legal compliance policy

(cid:96)  Nomination committee’s orientation policy

(cid:96)  Risk committee’s orientation policy

(cid:96)  Risk management policy

(cid:96)  Sustainable development policy

Governance 
policies 
revised

(cid:96)  Appointment of new directors policy

(cid:96)  Audit committee’s orientation policy

(cid:96)  Code of ethics and business conduct

(cid:96)  Communication policy

(cid:96)  Directors’ right to access information/documents policy

(cid:96)  Group levels of authority

(cid:96)  Orientation policy for new directors

(cid:96)  Provision of services by independent auditor

(cid:96)  Remuneration policy

(cid:96)  Trading in securities policy

(cid:96)  Whistle-blower policy

(cid:96)  Risk committee charter

(cid:96)  Board charter

(cid:96)  Human resources and remuneration committee charter

(cid:96)  Nomination committee charter

(cid:96)  Audit committee charter

New 
charters
introduced

Charters 
revised

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THE NASPERS  
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CORPORATE 
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SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Corporate governance (continued)

The composition of subcommittees of the 

competence for group compliance with the 

board and subcommittees of the boards of MIH, 

relevant laws. The board further manages 

MultiChoice and Media24 was reviewed and, 

corporate governance via its audit and risk 

where required, amended.

committees, which monitor the proper operation 

The formalisation of our risk management 

of such structures and systems and report to the 

processes was a major focus. Details of the 

board. 

enterprise-wide risk management framework 

Due to risk factors most notably the safety 

appear on page 28.

of our executives in the emerging markets in 

In terms of JSE Listings Requirements 

which we operate and possible contraventions 

reporting against King III applies for financial 

of local privacy laws, the board has decided 

year-ends from 1 March 2010. In line with 

to report on the remuneration of executive 

the overriding principle in King III of apply or 

management of the company, not the group. 

explain, the board, to the best of its knowledge, 

As such, remuneration of the two executive 

believes the group has applied or is embedding 

directors is set out in the remuneration report on 

processes in support of the relevant principles of 

page 119. Other company employees perform 

King III.

administrative functions.

King III provides that directors should have a 

The board believes the current non-executive 

working understanding of the effect of applicable 

directors’ fee structure of a single annual 

laws, rules, codes and standards on the 

fee is more appropriate for the board and 

company and its business. The company does 

its committees and better reflects member 

not interpret these provisions to mean the board 

contribution. 

should have legal expertise in all spheres in which 

the company operates or be familiar with all 

STATUS: NEW COMPANIES ACT

laws applicable to the company and its various 

The impact of the new South African Companies 

businesses, nor is it practical to do so, since 

Act No 71 of 2008 (signed into law on 8 April 

Naspers operates in 131 countries and in several 

2008 and effective 1 May 2011) was a focus 

subsectors of these economies. 

over the past year. To comply with this act, 

However, the Naspers board does ensure 

shareholders will be asked to appoint the 

adequate structures and systems are in 

members of the audit committee and consider 

place and populated with people of sufficient 

special resolutions on directors’ fees and the 

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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

provision of loans and other financial assistance. 

members is reported to this committee, along 

A new memorandum of incorporation is being 

with the manner in which the company’s 

drafted and will be brought to shareholders for 

disciplinary code was applied.

consideration and approval at the appropriate 

Naspers is committed to conducting its 

time. The new act provides transitional 

business on the basis of complying with the law, 

arrangements in terms of which Naspers has until 

with integrity and with proper regard for ethical 

1 May 2013 to adopt a new memorandum of 

business practices. It expects all directors and 

incorporation.

employees to comply with these principles and, 

in particular, to avoid conflicts of interest and to 

BUSINESS ETHICS STATEMENT

desist from insider trading, illegal anti-competitive 

Naspers is formalising its compliance and ethics 

activities and bribery and corruption.

management process. The group code of 

Whistle-blowing facilities at most major 

business ethics was revised during the year, and 

subsidiaries enable employees to anonymously 

is available on www.naspers.com.

report unethical business conduct. 

This code applies to all directors and 

employees in the group. Ensuring that group 

COMPLIANCE FRAMEWORK

companies adopt appropriate processes and 

Naspers has established a legal compliance 

establish supporting policies and procedures is 

programme formalising practices followed for 

an ongoing process. Management focuses on 

some time. The programme involves preparing 

policies and procedures that address key ethical 

and maintaining inventories of material laws and 

risks, such as conflicts of interest, accepting 

regulations for each business unit, implementing 

inappropriate gifts and acceptable business 

policies and procedures based on these 

conduct.

laws and regulations, establishing processes 

The human resources and remuneration 

to supervise compliance and mitigate risks, 

committee is the overall custodian of business 

monitoring compliance, implementing effective 

ethics. The disciplinary codes and procedures 

training and awareness programmes and 

of the various companies are used to ensure 

reporting to the various boards and management 

compliance with policies and practices that 

on the effectiveness of these efforts.

underpin the overall code of business ethics. 

The compliance programme is managed by 

Unethical business behaviour by senior staff 

the general counsel, André Coetzee, acting as 

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THE NASPERS  
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SUMMARISED 
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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Corporate governance (continued)

the chief compliance officer, while implementation 

At 31 March 2011 the board comprised 11 

at each business unit is undertaken by a local 

independent non-executive directors, one non-

compliance officer and compliance committee. 

executive director and two executive directors, 

Each local compliance committee reports to the 

as defined under the Listings Requirements of 

chief compliance officer who, in turn, reports to 

the JSE. Five directors (36%) are from previously 

the relevant risk committees.

disadvantaged groups and three directors (21%) 

Litigation in the business units is reported 

are female. These figures are above the average 

monthly by the respective heads of legal affairs 

for JSE-listed companies.

to the general counsel, but material litigation 

is notified to the general counsel as soon as 

THE CHAIR

possible after it arises. The general counsel, in 

The chair is an independent non-executive 

turn, reports regularly on material litigation to the 

director. He guides the board and ensures it is 

applicable boards and risk and audit committees.

efficient, focused and operates as a unit. The 

THE BOARD
COMPOSITION

responsibilities of the chair include:

(cid:96)  Provide overall leadership to the board without 

limiting the principle of collective responsibility 

Details of directors at 31 March 2011 are set out 

for board decisions, while being aware of 

on pages 110 to 113.

individual duties of board members.

Naspers has a unitary board, which 

(cid:96)  In conjunction with the chief executive, 

fulfils oversight and controlling functions. 

represent the board in communicating 

The board charter sets out the division of 

with shareholders, other stakeholders and, 

responsibilities. The majority of board members 

indirectly, the general public. 

are non-executive directors and independent of 

(cid:96)  Assisted by the board, its subcommittees 

management, to ensure that no one individual 

and the boards and subcommittees of 

has unfettered powers of decision-making and 

subsidiary companies, ensure the integrity and 

authority. The roles of chair and chief executive 

effectiveness of the governance process.

are separate.

(cid:96)  Maintain regular dialogue with the group’s chief 

Mr Boetie van Zyl acts as lead director in all 

executive on operational matters and consult 

matters not dealt with by the independent non-

with other board members on any matter of 

executive chair. 

concern. 

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SHAREHOLDER 
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INFORMATION

(cid:96)  In consultation with the company’s chief 

The functions and responsibilities of the chief 

executive and secretary, ensure appropriate 

executive include:

content and order of the agendas of board 

(cid:96)  Developing the company’s strategy for 

meetings and that members of the board 

consideration and approval by the board.

receive documentation promptly.

(cid:96)  Developing and recommending to the board 

(cid:96)  Ensure board members are properly informed 

the annual business plan and budget that 

on issues arising from board meetings and 

support the company’s long-term strategy.

that relevant information is submitted. 

(cid:96)  Monitoring and reporting to the board on the 

(cid:96)  Act as facilitator at board meetings to ensure 

performance of the company.

a sound flow of opinions. The chair ensures 

(cid:96)  Establishing an appropriate organisational 

adequate time is scheduled for discussions, 

structure for the company to execute its 

and that these lead to conclusions.

strategic planning.

(cid:96)  Monitor how the board works together and 

(cid:96)  Recommending/appointing the executive 

how individual directors interact at meetings. 

team and ensuring proper succession 

The chair meets with directors annually to 

planning and performance appraisals.

evaluate their performance. 

(cid:96)  Ensuring the company complies with relevant 

(cid:96)  Preapprove all dealings in Naspers shares 

laws, corporate governance principles, 

by directors of the company and its major 

business ethics and appropriate best 

subsidiaries (as defined in the JSE Listings 

practice.

Requirements).

THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE

ORIENTATION AND DEVELOPMENT

An induction programme is held for new 

The chief executive reports to the board and 

members of the board and key committees, 

is responsible for the day-to-day business 

tailored to the needs of individual appointees. 

of the group and implementation of policies 

This involves industry and company-specific 

and strategies approved by the board. Chief 

orientation, such as meetings with senior 

executives of the various businesses assist 

management to facilitate an understanding of 

him in this task. Board authority conferred on 

operations. Board members are also exposed to 

management is delegated through the chief 

the main markets in which the group operates. 

executive, against approved authority levels. 

The company secretary assists the chair with 

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SUMMARISED 
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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Corporate governance (continued)

the induction and orientation of directors, and 

(cid:96)  Determine the group’s values and 

arranges specific training if required.

incorporate these into the code of  

The company will continue director 

business ethics and conduct; ensure 

development to build on expertise and develop 

compliance with these codes is integrated 

an understanding of the businesses and main 

in the operations of the group.

markets in which the group operates. During the 

(cid:96)  Provide strategic direction to the company, 

past year Prof Debra Meyer attended a media 

take responsibility for the adoption of 

course at Harvard.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

Potential conflicts are appropriately managed to 

ensure candidate and existing directors have no 

conflicting interests between their obligations to 

the company and their personal interests. Any 

interest in contracts with the company must be 

formally disclosed and documented. Directors 

must also adhere to a policy on trading securities 

of the company.

INDEPENDENT ADVICE

Individual directors may, after consulting with 

the chair or chief executive, seek independent 

professional advice, at the expense of the 

company, on any matter connected with 

discharging their responsibilities as directors.

strategic plans.

(cid:96)  Monitor the company’s social, 

environmental and financial performance.

(cid:96)  Monitor compliance with key laws, codes 

and standards.

(cid:96)  Identify material stakeholders and monitor 

management’s process of engaging.

(cid:96)  Approve the annual business plan and 

budget compiled by management, take 

cognisance of sustainability aspects.

(cid:96)  Retain effective control of the company 

and monitor management’s implementation 

of the approved annual budget and 

business plan.

(cid:96)  Oversee preparation of and approve the 

annual financial statements (for adoption 

by shareholders), interim, provisional and 

integrated annual reports (as reviewed 

ROLE AND FUNCTION OF THE BOARD

by the audit committee) and ensure their 

The board has adopted a charter setting out its 

integrity and fair presentation.

responsibilities as follows: 

(cid:96)  Consider and, if appropriate, declare the 

(cid:96)  Determine the company’s purpose and key 

payment of dividends to shareholders.

objectives.

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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

(cid:96)  Evaluate the viability of the company and 

(cid:96)  Communicate with shareholders and 

the group as a going concern, and properly 

relevant stakeholders appropriately.

record this evaluation.

(cid:96)  Determine the selection and orientation of 

directors.

(cid:96)  Appoint the chief executive and financial 

director, and ensure succession is  

planned.

(cid:96)  Establish appropriate subcommittees  

with clear terms of reference and 

responsibilities.

(cid:96)  Appoint the chair of the board and its 

subcommittees.

(cid:96)  Annually evaluate performance and 

effectiveness of directors, the board as a 

(cid:96)  Ensure processes are in place to resolve 

disputes. Alternative dispute resolution will 

be considered where appropriate.

(cid:96)  Annually review the charters of the group’s 

significant subsidiary companies’ boards, 

and their self-assessment of compliance 

with these to establish if the Naspers board 

can rely on the work of the subsidiary 

companies’ boards. 

(cid:96)  Review annually the charters of 

subcommittees of the board.

whole and its subcommittees.

BOARD MEETINGS AND ATTENDANCE

(cid:96)  Ensure the company governs risk 

The board meets at least four times a year, or 

adequately through risk management 

systems and processes, which allow the 

board to set tolerance levels.

(cid:96)  Ensure there is effective risk-based internal 

audit, which allows it to report on the 

effectiveness of the company’s system of 

internal controls in its integrated annual report.

(cid:96)  Define levels of delegation for specific 

matters, with appropriate authority 

delegated to subcommittees and 

management.

as required. The executive committee attends to 

matters that cannot wait for the next scheduled 

meeting. The board held five meetings in the 

past financial year. Independent, non-executive 

directors meet at least once annually without 

the chief executive, financial director and chair 

present, to discuss the performance of these 

individuals. 

The company secretary acts as secretary to 

the board and its subcommittees and attends all 

(cid:96)  Determine the company’s communication 

meetings. Details of attendance at meetings are 

policy.

provided on page 114.

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SHAREHOLDER 
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INFORMATION

Corporate governance (continued)

EVALUATION

determined that although some directors had 

The nomination committee carries out the annual 

served as members for nine years or longer, they 

evaluation process. The performance of the board 

all demonstrated that they were independent 

and its subcommittees, as well as the chair of 

in character and judgement and there were no 

the board, against their respective mandates in 

relationships or circumstances that were likely to 

terms of the board charter and the charters of its 

affect or could appear to affect their independence. 

subcommittees, is appraised. The subcommittees 

perform self-evaluations against their charters for 

BOARD COMMITTEES

consideration by the board. 

While the whole board remains accountable for 

In addition, the performance of each director 

the performance and affairs of the company, it 

is evaluated by the other board members, using 

delegates certain functions to subcommittees 

an evaluation questionnaire. The chair of the 

and management to assist in discharging 

nomination committee discusses the results with 

its duties. Appropriate structures for those 

each director and agrees on any training needs 

delegations are in place, accompanied by 

or areas requiring attention by that director. 

monitoring and reporting systems. 

Where a director’s performance is not considered 

Each subcommittee acts within agreed, 

satisfactory, the board will not recommend his/her 

written terms of reference. The chair of each 

re-election.

subcommittee reports at each scheduled board 

A consolidated summary of the evaluation is 

meeting. 

reported to and discussed by the board, including 

The chair of each subcommittee is a non-

any actions required. The lead independent 

executive director and is required to attend 

director leads the discussion on the performance 

annual general meetings to answer questions. 

of the chair, with reference to the results of the 

Two Naspers directors serve on the Media24 

evaluation questionnaire, and provides feedback 

safety, health and environmental committee. 

to the chair.

The established board subcommittees are 

The annual evaluation process showed that the 

detailed below.

board and its subcommittees had functioned well 

and discharged their duties as per the mandates 

Executive committee

in their charters. Furthermore, the independence 

This committee comprises a majority of non-

of each director was evaluated. The board 

executive directors, one being the chair of the 

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board, who also serves as the chair of the 

This committee’s main responsibilities, in 

executive committee, plus two executive 

addition to its responsibilities in terms of the 

directors. The executive committee acts for 

Companies Act, are as follows:

the board in managing urgent issues when the 

(cid:96)  Review and approve the company’s 

board is not in session, subject to statutory 

integrated annual report, annual financial 

limits and the board’s limitations on delegation. 

statements, interim and provisional reports, 

This committee met three times during the 

and any other press releases with material 

financial year. Details of attendance at meetings 

financial or internal control impacts. Final 

are provided on page 115. 

approval rests with the board.

Audit committee

(cid:96)  Review the viability of the company and the 

group on a going-concern basis, making 

This committee, chaired by Mr Boetie van Zyl, 

relevant recommendations.

comprises only non-executive independent 

(cid:96)  Receive all audit reports directly from the 

directors. All members are financially literate 

external auditor.

and have business and financial acumen.

(cid:96)  Annually review and report on the quality 

The committee held four meetings during the 

and effectiveness of the audit process, 

past financial year. Details of attendance are 

including assessing the external auditor’s 

provided on page 115. The chief executive and 

independence.

financial director attend committee meetings by 

(cid:96)  Evaluate the lead partner of the external 

invitation. 

auditor, who will be subject to rotation as 

Both internal and external auditors have 

required by regulations.

unrestricted access to the committee through 

(cid:96)  Present the committee’s conclusions on the 

the chair. The internal and external auditors 

external auditor to the board, preceding the 

also report their findings to the committee with 

annual request to shareholders to approve 

members of executive management not in 

the appointment of the external auditor.

attendance.

(cid:96)  Approve the external auditor’s terms of 

The chair of the board is not a member of 

engagement and remuneration. Evaluate and 

the audit committee, but may attend meetings 

provide commentary on the external auditor’s 

by invitation.

audit plans, scope of findings, identified 

issues and reports.

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AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Corporate governance (continued)

(cid:96)  Develop a policy for the board to approve 

(cid:96)  Confirm the appointment or dismissal of the 

non-audit services performed by the external 

head of the group’s internal audit function 

auditor. Approve non-audit services provided 

and periodically review his/her performance. 

by the external auditor in accordance with this 

Ensure the internal audit function is subject to 

policy.

a periodic independent quality review.

(cid:96)  Receive notice of reportable irregularities (as 

(cid:96)  Review internal audit and the risk committee’s 

defined in the Auditing Profession Act) that 

reports to the audit committee.

have been reported by the external auditor to 

(cid:96)  Review compliance with the requirements of 

the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors.

the JSE Limited, the United Kingdom Listing 

(cid:96)  Evaluate the effectiveness of internal audit, 

Authority (UKLA) and the London Stock 

including its purpose, activities, scope, 

Exchange.

adequacy and costs, and approve the annual 

(cid:96)  Review procedures in light of the King Code 

internal audit plan and any material changes.

on Corporate Governance.

(cid:96)  Satisfy itself it has appropriately addressed: 

(cid:96)  Monitor compliance with board-approved 

(cid:1) (cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:253)(cid:79)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:81)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:74)(cid:84)(cid:76)(cid:84)

(cid:1) (cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:1)(cid:253)(cid:79)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:1)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:85)(cid:83)(cid:80)(cid:77)(cid:84)

group levels of authority.

(cid:96)  Evaluate:

(cid:1) (cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:71)(cid:83)(cid:66)(cid:86)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:74)(cid:84)(cid:76)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:77)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:1)(cid:253)(cid:79)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:81)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:13)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:69)(cid:1)

(cid:1) (cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:77)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:1)(cid:78)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:78)(cid:66)(cid:90)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:71)(cid:71)(cid:70)(cid:68)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:253)(cid:79)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:1) 

(cid:1) (cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:42)(cid:53)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:74)(cid:84)(cid:76)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:77)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:1)(cid:253)(cid:79)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:74)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:81)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:15)

  statements 

(cid:96)  Evaluate the nature and extent of the formal 

(cid:1) (cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:78)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:71)(cid:1)(cid:84)(cid:74)(cid:72)(cid:79)(cid:74)(cid:253)(cid:68)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:81)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:67)(cid:90)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:70)(cid:1) 

documented review of internal financial controls to 

  internal and external auditors, and any other  

be performed annually by internal audit on behalf 

  parties, including implied potential risks  

of the board. Weaknesses in internal financial 

  to the group and recommendations on  

controls that are considered material (individually 

  appropriate improvements

or in combination with other weaknesses) and 

(cid:1) (cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:78)(cid:66)(cid:75)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:1)(cid:86)(cid:79)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:80)(cid:77)(cid:87)(cid:70)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:68)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:79)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:86)(cid:69)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:72)(cid:1) 

that resulted in actual material financial loss, fraud 

  issues, and

or material errors, to be reported to the board and 

(cid:1) (cid:116)(cid:1)(cid:81)(cid:83)(cid:80)(cid:72)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:84)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:1)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:78)(cid:81)(cid:77)(cid:70)(cid:85)(cid:74)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:71)(cid:1)(cid:78)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:81)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:69)

in the integrated annual report.

  by the internal and external auditors.

(cid:96)  Approve for recommendation to the board the 

(cid:96)  Establish procedures for the receipt, retention 

internal audit charter, which must be reviewed 

and treatment of complaints received on 

annually.

accounting, internal control, auditing matters, 

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INFORMATION

risk management and management of other 

(cid:96)  Perform an annual self-assessment of its 

fraudulent activities, including procedures 

effectiveness, reporting these findings to the 

for confidential, anonymous reporting by 

board.

employees.

(cid:96)  Annually evaluate the performance and 

Human resources and remuneration  

appropriateness of the expertise and 

committee

experience of the financial director and the 

The main objective of this committee is to fulfil 

finance function, and disclose the results in 

the board’s responsibility for the strategic human 

the integrated annual report.

resources issues of the group, particularly the 

(cid:96)  Ensure a combined assurance model is 

appointment, remuneration and succession of the 

applied to provide a coordinated approach 

most senior executives. The committee comprises 

to all assurance activities, monitoring the 

a minimum of three independent non-executive 

relationship between external providers and 

directors. Its responsibilities are outlined in the 

the company. Coordination between internal 

remuneration report on page 116.

and external auditors must be evaluated.

(cid:96)  Report to shareholders at the annual  

Risk committee

general meeting on fulfulling its duties in 

The committee comprises a minimum of three 

terms of the Companies Act during the 

independent non-executive directors, as well as 

financial year.

the chief executive and financial director. The 

(cid:96)  Execute assignments commissioned by the 

chair of the board may not serve as chair of this 

board.

committee.

(cid:96)  Annually assess its charter and recommend 

Members of the committee are individuals with 

any required amendments for approval by 

risk management skills and experience. 

the board.

The committee’s responsibilities include:

(cid:96)  Annually review the charters of significant 

(cid:96)  Review and approve for recommendation to 

subsidiaries’ audit committees, and review 

the board a risk management policy and plan 

their annual assessment of compliance with 

developed by management. The risk policy 

these charters to establish if the Naspers 

and plan are reviewed annually.

committee can rely on the work of the 

(cid:96)  Monitor implementation of the risk policy and 

subsidiary companies’ committees.

plan, ensuring an appropriate enterprise-

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INFORMATION

Corporate governance (continued)

wide risk management system is in place 

INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS

with adequate and effective processes 

The company has a system of internal controls, 

that include strategy, ethics, operations, 

based on the group’s policies and guidelines, 

reporting, compliance, IT and sustainability.

in all material subsidiaries and joint ventures 

(cid:96)  Make recommendations to the board on 

under its control. For those entities in which 

risk indicators, levels of risk tolerance and 

Naspers does not have a controlling interest, 

appetite.

the directors representing Naspers on these 

(cid:96)  Monitor that risks are reviewed by 

boards seek assurance that significant risks 

management, and that management’s 

are managed and systems of internal control 

responses to identified risks are within 

are effective. Internal auditors monitor the 

board-approved levels of risk tolerance.

functioning of internal control systems and  

(cid:96)  Ensure risk management assessments are 

make recommendations to management and 

performed regularly by management.

the audit and risk committees. The external 

(cid:96)  Issue a formal opinion to the board on the 

auditor considers elements of the internal control 

effectiveness of the system and process of 

systems as part of its audit and communicates 

risk management.

deficiencies when identified.

(cid:96)  Review reporting on risk management that  

All internal control systems have 

is to be included in the integrated annual 

shortcomings, including the possibility of 

report.

human error or flouting of control measures. 

(cid:96)  Review annually the charters of the group’s 

Even the best system may provide only partial 

significant subsidiary companies’ risk 

assurance. The group’s internal controls and 

committees, and their annual assessment of 

systems are designed to provide reasonable, 

compliance with these charters to establish 

and not absolute, assurance on the integrity 

if the Naspers committee can rely on the 

and reliability of the financial statements; to 

work of these risk committees.

safeguard, verify and maintain accountability of 

(cid:96)  Perform an annual self-assessment of the 

its assets; and to detect fraud, potential liability, 

effectiveness of the committee, reporting 

loss and material misstatement, while complying 

these findings to the board.

with regulations.

The board reviewed the effectiveness of 

controls for the year ending 31 March 2011, 

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INFORMATION

principally through a process of management 

committee, with administrative reporting to the 

self-assessment, including formal confirmation 

financial director. A large part of the internal 

per representation letters by executive 

audit fieldwork is outsourced. 

management. Consideration was given to 

input, including reports from internal audit 

NON-AUDIT SERVICES

and the external auditor, compliance and the 

The group’s revised policy on non-audit services 

risk management process. Where necessary, 

provides guidelines on dealing with audit, audit-

programmes for corrective actions have been 

related, tax and other non-audit services that may 

initiated. 

be provided by Naspers’s independent auditor to 

Nothing has come to the attention of the 

group entities. It also sets out services that may 

board, external or internal auditors to indicate 

not be performed by the independent auditor.

any material breakdown in the functioning of 

The audit committee preapproves audit and 

internal controls and systems during the year 

non-audit services to ensure these do not impair 

under review except for:

the auditor’s independence and comply with 

(cid:96)  weaknesses reported at Media24 with 

legislation. Under our guiding principles, the 

respect to the IT implementation of the 

auditor’s independence will be deemed impaired 

ERP system during the year and the 

if the auditor provides a service where he/she:

consequential inadequate and ineffective 

(cid:96)  functions in the role of management of the 

internal controls over the circulation 

company, or

process.

(cid:96)  audits his/her own work, or

(cid:96)  serves in an advocacy role for the company.

INTERNAL AUDIT

An internal audit function is in place throughout 

IT GOVERNANCE

the group. This is an independent appraisal 

Information technology (IT) governance is 

mechanism that examines and evaluates the 

integrated in the operations of the Naspers 

group’s procedures and systems, including 

businesses and, for many, specifically the 

internal controls, disclosure procedures and 

internet businesses, at the core of their 

information systems, ensuring these are 

operations. Management of each subsidiary or 

functioning effectively. The head of internal 

business unit is responsible for ensuring proper 

audit reports to the chair of the Naspers audit 

processes are rolled out on IT governance. 

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AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Corporate governance (continued)

Internal audit will provide assurance to 

committed to providing timely and transparent 

management and the audit committee on the 

information on corporate strategies and financial 

effectiveness of IT governance. 

data to the investing public. In addition, we 

consider the growing demand for transparency 

COMPANY SECRETARY

and accountability on our non-financial (or 

The company secretary and group legal 

sustainability) performance. In line with King III, 

counsel are responsible for guiding the board in 

Naspers recognises that this performance is 

discharging its regulatory responsibilities.

based on its risk profile and strategy, which 

Directors have unlimited access to the 

includes non-financial risks and opportunities.

advice and services of the company secretary. 

The company manages communications with 

The company secretary plays a role in the 

its key financial audiences, including institutional 

company’s corporate governance and ensures 

shareholders and financial (debt and equity) 

that, in accordance with the pertinent laws, 

analysts, through a dedicated investor relations 

the proceedings and affairs of the board, 

unit. Presentations and conference calls take 

the company itself and, where appropriate, 

place after publishing interim and final results.

shareholders are properly administered. She 

A broad range of public communication 

is also the company’s compliance officer as 

channels (including stock exchange news 

defined in the Companies Act and delegated 

services, corporate website, press agencies, 

information officer. The company secretary 

newswires and news distribution service 

monitors directors’ dealings in securities and 

providers) are used to disseminate news 

ensures adherence to closed periods. 

releases. These channels are supplemented 

The company secretary attends all board and 

by direct communication via email, conference 

committee meetings.

calls, group presentations and one-on-one 

meetings. 

INVESTOR RELATIONS

Our policy is not to provide forward-looking 

Naspers’s investor relations policy can be 

information. However, to enable the investment 

found on www.naspers.com. It describes the 

community to better assess the group and its 

principles and practices applied in interacting 

performance, prospects, strategy and plans for 

with shareholders and investors. Naspers is 

operations may be discussed. While disclosing 

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SHAREHOLDER 
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INFORMATION

such information constitutes forward-looking 

The board encourages shareholders to attend 

statements, Naspers cautions investors and 

the annual general meeting, notice of which 

shareholders that these statements, although 

is contained in this integrated annual report, 

made on a fair and creditable basis, involve 

where shareholders have the opportunity to put 

many assumptions and sources of risk and, 

questions to the board, management and the 

therefore, actual results may differ materially 

chairs of the various subcommittees.

from the projected scenario. Naspers also 

The company’s website www.naspers.com 

complies with legislation and stock exchange 

provides the latest and historical financial and 

rules on forward-looking statements.

other information, including financial reports. 

CLOSED PERIODS 

Naspers would typically be in a closed period 

on the day after the end of a reporting period 

(30 September or 31 March) until the release of 

results. General investor interaction during this 

time is limited to discussions on strategy and/or 

historical, publicly available information. 

ANALYST REPORTS 

To enhance the quantity and quality of research, 

Naspers maintains working relationships with 

stock brokers, investment banks and credit-

rating agencies – irrespective of their views or 

recommendations on the group. Naspers may 

review an analyst’s report or earnings model 

for factual accuracy of information in the public 

domain, but in line with regulations and group 

policy. We do not provide guidance or forecasts.

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SHAREHOLDER 
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INFORMATION

Directorate

TON VOSLOO (73) became managing director of Naspers in 1984, serving as executive 

chairman from 1992 to 1997. Mr Vosloo worked as a journalist from 1956 to 1983 and 

as editor of Beeld from 1977 to 1983. He is a director of Media24 and MultiChoice South 

Africa Holdings, chairman of MIH BV, MIH Holdings and MIH (Mauritius) and independent 

non-executive chairman of the board of Naspers, a position he has held since 1997. He 

is a former chairman of Sanlam, M-Net, WWF South Africa and the Cape Philharmonic 

Orchestra. He was awarded the Nieman Fellowship from Harvard University in 1970. 

Mr Vosloo has been awarded three honorary doctorates.

RACHEL JAFTA (50), MEcon and PhD, is a professor in economics at Stellenbosch 

University. She joined Naspers as a director in 2003 and was appointed a director of 

Media24 in 2007. She is a member of the South African Economic Society, director 

of Econex, chairperson of the Cape Town Carnival Trust and board member of the 

South African Institute of Race Relations. She is a member of the audit and risk 

committees of Naspers and Media24. She was appointed chair of the Media24 audit 

and risk committees in April 2008. 

KOOS BEKKER (58) led the founding team of M-Net in 1985. He was also a founding 

director of MTN. He led the MIH group until 1997, when he became chief executive 

offi cer of Naspers. He serves on the boards of other companies in the wider group. 

He also served on the Local Organising Committee for the 2010 Fifa World Cup, 

the Council of Stellenbosch University and various bodies. He holds several 

qualifi cations, including BAHons (Stellenbosch), LLB (Wits), MBA (Columbia) 

and an honorary doctorate.

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INFORMATION

JAKES GERWEL (65) joined Naspers as a director in 1999. He is a former director-

general in the offi ce of then president Nelson Mandela, and a previous director of the 

University of the Western Cape. He is chancellor of Rhodes University, distinguished 

professor in humanities at the University of the Western Cape and honorary professor 
in humanities at the University of Pretoria. He is non-executive chairman of Aurecon, 
Brimstone Investment Corporation, Life Healthcare and Media24. He chairs the 

boards of trustees of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Mandela Rhodes Foundation, 

Allan Gray Orbis Foundation and is vice chairman of the Peace Parks Foundation. He 

is a member of the executive, human resources and remuneration and nomination 

committees of Media24 and Naspers.

DEBRA MEYER (43) was appointed a director in 2009. Currently professor of 

biochemistry at the University of Pretoria, she holds a PhD in biochemistry and 

molecular biology from UC Davis (University of California). She writes for scientifi c 

journals and contributes to several newspapers and magazines. She is a published 

poet, has won several awards in her fi eld of expertise and was recognised by 
Rapport and City Press in 2007 as one of ten nominated for their Prestigious Women 

Awards. She is involved in social issues, particularly HIV/Aids, and serves as trustee 

or board member of various organisations.

STEVE PACAK (56), a qualifi ed CA(SA), began his career with Naspers as group 

fi nancial manager of M-Net in 1988 and held various executive positions in the 

MIH group. He is a director of Media24, MIH BV, MIH (Mauritius), MIH Holdings, 

MultiChoice South Africa Holdings and other companies in the wider Naspers 

group. He was appointed an executive director of Naspers in 1998.

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INFORMATION

Directorate (continued)

BOETIE VAN ZYL (72) holds the qualifi cations PrEng and BScEng(Mechanical) 

(UCT). He joined Naspers as a director in 1988. He is a member of the boards 

of MIH Holdings and Media24, a director of the Peace Parks Foundation, and a 

trustee of WWF South Africa. He is chairman of the audit and risk committees 

of Naspers, a member of the audit and risk committees of Media24 and MIH, 

and a member of the human resources and remuneration and nomination 

committees of Media24 and Naspers.

FRANCINE-ANN DU PLESSIS (56) has been a director of Naspers since 2003 

and holds the qualifi cations BComHons(Taxation), LLB and CA(SA). Although 

she is admitted as an advocate of the Cape High Court, she practises as a 

chartered accountant and is a director of Loubser du Plessis Inc. She is a 

member of the audit and risk committees of Naspers. She also serves on the 

boards of Sanlam, ArcelorMittal and Life Healthcare.

FRED PHASWANA (66) holds the qualifi cations MA and BComHons, and 

obtained a BA(Philosophy, Politics and Economics) from the University of South 

Africa in 2010. He joined Naspers as a director in 2003. He is chairman of The 

Standard Bank Group and of Standard Bank of South Africa Limited. He is also 

chairperson of the SA Institute of International Affairs. 

LAMBERT RETIEF (58) obtained the qualifi cations BCom and BComHons 

at Stellenbosch University. He then qualifi ed as a CA(SA) and completed 

the Owner President Management (OPM) programme at Harvard Business 

School. He is a director of Media24, chair and former chief executive of Paarl 

Media group and a director of other group subsidiaries. He is also a director of 

the listed Zeder Investments Limited. 

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INFORMATION

BEN VAN DER ROSS (64), who holds the qualifi cation of DipLaw (UCT) and 

is an admitted attorney, is chairman of Strategic Real Estate Management 

(Proprietary) Limited, the managers of the Emira Property Fund. He also 

serves inter alia on the boards of FirstRand Limited, MMI Holdings Limited 

and Pick n Pay Stores Limited.

LOURENS JONKER (71) obtained the qualifi cation BScAgric with 

further studies at UC Davis (University of California). He has completed 

programmes for director development at IMD, Lausanne, Switzerland and 

GIBS (University of Pretoria). He is the owner of Weltevrede Wine Estate. He 

joined the board of KWV Co-operative in 1981 and became chairperson of 

KWV Group Limited in 1994. He led the successful transformation of KWV 

from a cooperative to a fully commercialised company, and resigned from 

the KWV board in December 2003.

HEIN WILLEMSE (53) holds an MA (cum laude), MBL and DLitt degrees. 

He is currently a literature professor at the University of Pretoria. He is a 

board member or trustee of various national and international technical 

associations or community organisations.

NEIL VAN HEERDEN (71), who holds a BA qualifi cation, is a trustee of 

the University of the Western Cape, former director-general of foreign 

affairs, ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany, ambassador 

to the European Union and former executive director of the South 

Africa Foundation (now South Africa Business Leadership). He is also a 

director of other companies.

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INFORMATION

Directorate (continued)

DIRECTORS AND ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS

Date first 
appointed in 
current position

6 October 
1997

6 October 
1997

23 October 
2003

12 July  
1999

23 October 
2003

7 June  
1996

Date last 
appointed

27 August 
2010

1 April 
2008

28 August 
2009

22 August 
2008

28 August
2009

27 August 
 2010

25 November 
2009

25 November 
2009

1 April 
2009

23 October 
2003

1 April 
2009

28 August
2009

T Vosloo

J P Bekker

F-A du Plessis 

G J Gerwel

R C C Jafta 

L N Jonker

D Meyer

S J Z Pacak

T M F Phaswana 

L P Retief

1 September 
2008

1 September 
2008

B J van der Ross

N P van Heerden

J J M van Zyl

H S S Willemse

12 February 
1999

7 June  
1996

1 January  
1988

30 August  
2002

22 August  
2008

27 August  
2010

22 August  
2008

27 August  
2010

Five board 
meetings were 
held during the 
year.
Attendance:

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

5

Category

Independent 
non-executive

Executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Executive

Independent 
non-executive

Non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

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INFORMATION

COMMITTEES AND ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS

Executive 
committee

Audit 
committee1

Risk 
committee

Human 
resources and 
remuneration 
committee1 

Nomination 
committee1

Three  
meetings  
held during 
the year.
Attendance:

Four 
meetings  
held during 
the year.
Attendance:

Four 
meetings  
held during 
the year.
Attendance:

Five  
meetings  
held during 
the year. 
Attendance:

Five  
meetings  
held during 
the year.
Attendance:

✓

5

✓

5

✓

5

✓

5

✓

5

✓

5

T Vosloo

✓

3

F-A du Plessis

✓

4

G J Gerwel

✓

3

R C C Jafta

J J M van Zyl

✓

3

B J van der 
Ross

J P Bekker

S J Z Pacak

✓

✓

3

3

✓

✓

✓

4

4

3

Note
1Executive directors attend meetings by invitation.

✓

✓

✓

✓

✓

✓

✓

4

4

4

4

3

4

4

Category

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Independent 
non-executive

Executive

Executive

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Remuneration report

Human resources and remuneration committee 

final approval by shareholders in the annual 

and its role

general meeting. Remuneration is approved 

The human resources and remuneration 

by shareholders in advance.

committee comprises only independent  

(cid:96)   Fulfil delegated responsibilities on Naspers’s 

non-executive directors. Executive directors 

share-based incentive plans, eg appointing 

and certain members of management attend 

trustees and compliance officers.

meetings by invitation. This committee met 

five times during the financial year. Details 

of attendance at meetings are provided on 

page 115. 

The main responsibilities of the committee 

are as follows:

(cid:96)    Determine and approve the group’s  

general remuneration policy, which must  

be tabled at each annual general meeting  

for a non-binding advisory vote by 

shareholders.

(cid:96)   Prepare an annual remuneration report for 

inclusion in the company’s integrated annual 

report.

(cid:96)   Review and approve annually the 

remuneration packages of the most senior 

executives, including incentive schemes and 

increases, ensuring they are appropriate and 

in line with the remuneration policy.

(cid:96)   Annually appraise the performance of the 

chief executive.

(cid:96)   Review the remuneration of non-executive 

directors of the board and its subcommittees 

annually. Make proposals to the board for 

(cid:96)   Approve the most senior appointments and 

promotions.

(cid:96)   Review incidents of unethical behaviour by 

senior managers and the chief executive.

(cid:96)   Review annually the company’s code of 

ethics and business conduct.

(cid:96)   Review annually the committee’s charter and 

recommend required amendments.

(cid:96)   Approve amendments to the Naspers 

share-based incentive plans.

(cid:96)   Perform an annual self-assessment of the 

effectiveness of the committee, reporting 

these findings to the board.

(cid:96)   Review annually the charters of the group’s 

significant subsidiaries’ remuneration 

committees, and their annual assessment of 

compliance with these charters to establish if 

the Naspers committee can rely on the work 

of the subsidiary companies’ committees.

The committee fulfilled its remit during the year.

Remuneration strategy and policy

Naspers’s remuneration strategy aims to 

attract, motivate and retain competent leaders 

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AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

in its drive to create sustainable shareholder 

of the board and boards of subsidiaries. 

value. We aim to attract entrepreneurs and the 

A premium is payable to the chair of the board, 

best creative engineers to grow the value of 

as well as to the chairs of the subcommittees.

the group and to recognise top performance.

Remuneration is reviewed annually, with 

Our policies and practices align the 

reference to competitors and companies that 

remuneration and incentives of executives and 

have a dual listing on the JSE and an overseas 

employees to the group’s long-term business 

securities exchange. Independent advice is 

strategy. Group companies are responsible for 

acquired to review directors’ remuneration. 

developing their own policies and benefits 

This remuneration is not linked to the 

within the confines of the group remuneration 

company’s share price or performance. 

policy and in accordance with their local laws 

Non-executive directors do not qualify for 

and each company’s needs.

shares in terms of the group’s incentive 

Primary objectives include the need to 

schemes. The board annually recommends 

promote superior performance; direct 

remuneration of non-executive directors for 

employees’ energies towards key business 

approval by shareholders in advance.

goals; achieve the most effective returns for 

In remunerating executives, the group aims 

employee spend; address needs across 

to attract, motivate and retain competent and 

differing cultures; and have credible 

committed leaders in its drive to create 

remuneration policies.

sustainable shareholder value. We aim to 

Naspers has an integrated approach to its 

recognise top performance and attract 

reward strategy, encompassing a balanced 

entrepreneurs and the best creative engineers 

design in which reward components are 

to grow the value of the group. The 

aligned to the strategic direction and 

remuneration policies strive to meet this 

business-specific value drivers of Naspers.

objective. Accordingly, the focus is not primarily 

Overview of remuneration

Non-executive directors receive annual 

remuneration as opposed to a fee per meeting. 

This recognises the ongoing responsibility of 

directors for the efficient control of the 

company. This remuneration is augmented by 

compensation for services on subcommittees 

on guaranteed annual remuneration, but on 

individual incentive plans linked to creating 

shareholder value.

Naspers usually structures packages on a 

total cost-to-company basis which 

incorporates base pay, car allowance, pension, 

medical aid and other optional benefits. In 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Remuneration report (continued)

addition, most executives qualify for individual 

companies or subsidiaries. These awards 

and/or team performance incentives. At senior 

normally vest over a period of four or five years 

level, we avoid standardised packages and aim 

and must be exercised within five to ten years 

to tailor compensation structure to the needs 

from the date of grant. The shares/appreciation 

of the specific business.

rights are not free. The employee is offered the 

Remuneration packages are reviewed 

shares/appreciation rights at market value on 

annually and are monitored and compared with 

the day of the award. Employees benefit only if 

reported figures for similar positions to ensure 

they, together with colleagues in that unit, can 

they are fair and sensible. In some cases 

create additional value above the value on the 

independent consultants provide benchmarks. 

date of issue. The various remuneration 

We have no specific group policies to, for 

committees in the group annually review the 

example, pay the median, as the requirements 

share awards. In addition, if a particular group 

of a group serving a multitude of countries 

company employs people during the year, that 

differ widely.

Annual bonus

Most executives have an annual bonus scheme 

that may comprise a variable component 

based on surpassing financial and operational 

objectives, as well as fixed amounts for 

achieving specific discrete objectives. The 

incentive for each executive is agreed annually 

in advance. Incentives are based on targets 

that are verifiable and aligned to the group’s 

business plan, risk management policy and 

strategy. If targets are not met, no bonus is 

paid.

Long-term incentives

Long-term incentives are generally share-based 

incentive schemes for Naspers N shares and/

or shares or appreciation rights in respective 

remuneration committee may decide to make 

awards to those individuals. No awards of 

shares/appreciation rights are made during a 

closed period for trading, backdating awards is 

prohibited, there is no repricing and automatic 

regranting of underwater shares/appreciation 

rights. There is no automatic entitlement to 

bonuses or early vesting of share-based 

incentives should an executive leave the 

employ of the company.

The group operates numerous share-based 

incentive schemes, detailed in the notes to the 

annual financial statements enclosed with this 

report under equity compensation benefits.

Service contracts

Executives’ contracts generally are subject to 

terms and conditions of employment in the 

118

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ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

local jurisdiction. Top executive and non-executive directors’ contracts do not contain ‘golden 

parachute’ clauses.

Non-executive directors are subject to regulations on appointment and rotation in terms of  

the company’s articles of association/memorandum of incorporation and the South African 

Companies Act No 61 of 1973.

SHARE-BASED INCENTIVE PLANS

The group operates a number of share-based incentive schemes. Some offer employees Naspers 

shares, others relate directly to individual operating companies. Details are contained in the annual 

financial statements enclosed with this report, which can also be found on www.naspers.com.

At 31 March 2011 the group held 26 433 083 (2010: 26 868 506) Naspers N ordinary shares  

as treasury shares to settle outstanding options under certain of the group’s share incentive  

schemes. The dilution effect of these treasury shares amounted to 54 cents per N ordinary share  

(2010: 25 cents).

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS

2011

S J Z Pacak

J P Bekker

2010

S J Z Pacak

J P Bekker

Bonuses and 
performance-
related fees
R’000

Pension 
contributions
R’000

2 900

—

2 900

3 135

—

3 135

200

—

200

280

—

280

Salary
R’000

3 054

—

3 054

2 820

—

2 820

Total
R’000

6 154

—

6 154

6 235

—

6 235

Mr Pacak’s bonus is based on financial, operational and discrete objectives, which were approved  

by the human resources and remuneration committee in advance. The bonus is capped at 100%  

of total cost to company. Remuneration received by executive directors for other services paid by 

subsidiary companies totalled R6,154m (2010: R6,235m).

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Remuneration report (continued)

Executive directors’ contracts

No executive director has a notice period of more than one year. No executive director’s service 

contract includes predetermined compensation as a result of termination exceeding one year’s 

salary and benefits.

The chief executive, Mr Bekker, does not earn any remuneration from the group. In particular no 

salary, bonus, car scheme, medical or pension contributions of any nature are payable. His 

contract is for a five-year period, which started on 1 April 2008. No compensation will apply to 

termination. The chief executive has share allocations, as indicated below, under the Naspers share 

incentive scheme, in terms of which Naspers N ordinary shares can be acquired at certain prices, 

with various tranches vesting over periods of five years. The purchase prices for the allocations 

were set at the middle market price of the shares on the purchase date, but increased by 

anticipated inflation over the vesting periods of three, four and five years respectively, for each 

tranche. Inflation expectations were calculated by the Bureau for Economic Research, University 

of Stellenbosch.

The chief financial officer, Mr Pacak, has an indefinite employee contract.

Directors’ interests in scheme shares of the Naspers share incentive scheme

The executive directors of Naspers are allowed to participate in the Naspers share incentive 

scheme. Details as at 31 March 2011 in respect of the executive directors’ participation in scheme 

shares not yet released, are as follows:

Name

J P Bekker 

Purchase
date

31/03/2008
31/03/2008

Number of 
N shares

 3 895 936 
 3 895 936 

Purchase
price

R176,11 
R185,56 

Release
period

31/03/2012
31/03/2013

S J Z Pacak1

08/07/2006

 50 000 

R114,52 

08/07/2011

1  On 15 December 2010 a total of 15 000 released Naspers N ordinary shares were sold by Mr S J Z Pacak’s family trust 

upon payment of an average price of R23,50 per share (the original average offer price based on the listed market price of 
Naspers Limited N ordinary shares on the date of the offer) due to the Naspers share incentive trust, at an average selling 
price of R392,01 per Naspers N ordinary share.

   On 21 December 2010 a total of 10 000 released Naspers N ordinary shares were sold by Mr S J Z Pacak’s family trust 

upon payment of an average price of R23,50 per share (the original average offer price based on the listed market price of 
Naspers Limited N ordinary shares on the date of the offer) due to the Naspers share incentive trust, at an average selling 
price of R390,00 per Naspers N ordinary share.

   At 31 March 2011 a total of 428 000 (2010: 556 000) unreleased Naspers N ordinary shares 

had been allocated to Mr S J Z Pacak by the MIH (Mauritius) Limited share incentive scheme 

with vesting periods until 27 February 2014.

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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS’ TERMS OF  

non-executive directors submitted for election 

APPOINTMENT

Appointments to the board

The board has a policy on procedures for  

the appointment and orientation of directors. 

The nomination committee periodically 

or re-election are accompanied by brief 

biographical details to enable shareholders to 

make an informed decision on their election. 

The reappointment of non-executive directors 

is not automatic.

assesses the skills represented on the board 

Directors’ emoluments

by non-executive directors and determines 

whether these meet the company’s needs. 

Annual self-evaluations conducted by the 

board and its subcommittees assist. Directors 

are invited to give their input in identifying 

potential candidates. The members of the 

nomination committee, who are all 

independent, propose suitable candidates for 

consideration by the board. A fit and proper 

evaluation is performed for each candidate.

Non-execuitve 
directors:

 Fees for  
services as 
directors

 Fees for  
services as 
directors of 
subsidiary 
companies

31 March

2011
R’000

2010
R’000

7 649

6 409

5 241

5 247

12 890

11 656

Retirement and re-election of directors

All non-executive directors are subject to 

retirement and re-election by shareholders 

every three years. In addition, all non-executive 

directors are subject to election by 

No director has a notice period of more than 

one year.

No director’s service contract includes 

predetermined compensation as a result of 

termination that would exceed one year’s 

shareholders at the first suitable opportunity 

salary benefits.

for interim appointments. The names of 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Remuneration report (continued)

Fees for the current year and proposed for 31 March 2012 and 31 March 2013 are as follows:

Board
1.1 Chair***
1.2 Member

Commitees 

1.3 ●  Audit committee: Chair
1.4
1.5 ● Risk committee: Chair
1.6
1.7 ●   Human resources and

Member

Member

remuneration committee: Chair

1.8
1.9 ●  Nomination committee: Chair
1.10

Member

Member

Other

1.11 Naspers representatives on Media24 
safety, health and environmental 
committee: Member

1.12 Trustee of group share schemes/other 

personnel funds

1.13 Media24 pension fund: Chair
1.14

              Trustee

31 March
2011

31 March
2012

31 March

2013**

R2 011 400*
R378 800*

R2 390 000
R430 000

R2 390 000
R430 000

R270 000*
R135 000*
R120 000*
R60 000*

R140 000*
R70 000*
R50 000*
R25 000*

R280 000
R140 000
R140 000
R70 000

R160 000
R80 000
R60 000
R30 000

R280 000
R140 000
R140 000
R70 000

R160 000
R80 000
R60 000
R30 000

R45 000

R48 000

R48 000

R32 000
R80 400
R53 600

R34 000
R85 500
R57 000

R34 000
R85 500
R57 000

   * These fees were approved by shareholders on 27 August 2010 and paid before the effective date of the Act and are reflected for 

comparative purposes.

  ** The proposed 31 March 2013 remuneration is subject to such annual increase as may be retrospectively approved by the 

shareholders at the 2013 Naspers annual general meeting.

*** The chair of the board does not receive additional remuneration if he/she is a member of or chairs any committee of the board.

122

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ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Individual non-executive directors received the following remuneration and emoluments during the 

current financial year:

Directors’ 
fees

Committee1 
and trustee2 
fees

Directors’ 
fees

Committee1 
and trustee2 
fees

Non-executive 
directors

Paid by 
company
R’000

Paid by
sub-
sidiaries
R’000

Paid by
company
R’000

Paid by
sub-
sidiaries
R’000

Total
2011
R’000

Paid by 
company
R’000

Paid by
sub-
sidiaries
R’000

Paid by
company
R’000

Paid by
sub-
sidiaries
R’000

T Vosloo3
J J M van Zyl3,4
L N Jonker4

2 011

1 407

379

379

791

—

—

517

45

109

211

—

3 527

1 898

424

1 887

1 233

354

354

578

—

379

85

—

379

379

379

379

379

379

379

379

—

590

—

—

—

1 350

197

—

163

165

45

339

—

—

195

—

—

—

70

—

—

—

133

298

—

464

354

80

542

1 204

424

718

379

1 862

1 069

379

354

354

354

354

354

354

354

148

—

557

—

—

124

1 687

186

—

N P van 
Heerden3

B J van der 
Ross
G J Gerwel3
H S S Willemse4
F-A du Plessis4

T M F 
Phaswana
L P R Retief3
R C C Jafta3

D Meyer

Notes

6 180

4 420

1 469

821 12 890

5 575

4 445

834

802 11 656

1   Committee fees include fees for the attendance of the audit committee, the risk committee (2011 only), the human resources 

and remuneration committee, and the nomination committee meetings of the board.

2    Trustee fees include fees for the attendance of the various retirement fund trustee meetings of the group’s retirement funds.
3    Directors’ fees include fees for services as directors, where appropriate, of Media24 Limited, Paarl Media Holdings (Proprietary) 
Limited, Via Afrika Limited, MIH Holdings Limited, MIH (Mauritius) Limited, Myriad International Holdings B.V. and MultiChoice 
South Africa (Proprietary) Limited.

4    Committee and trustees fees include, where appropriate, fees to be considered by shareholders at the annual general meeting 

on 26 August 2011 for services as trustees or members, as appropriate, of the group’s share schemes/retirement funds/
Media24’s safety, health and environmental committee.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

123

Total
2010
R’000

3 215

1 498

396

434

354

1 068

396

626

478

2 171

872

148

—

390

42

—

—

90

42

95

176

—

—

—

67

—

135

137

—

—

135

—

—

130

197

—

THE NASPERS  
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SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Remuneration report (continued)

Shareholding
Directors’ interest in Naspers shares

The directors of Naspers have the following interests in Naspers A ordinary shares on  

31 March 2011:

31 March 2011

31 March 2010

Naspers A ordinary shares

Naspers A ordinary shares

Beneficial

Beneficial

Name

Direct

Indirect

Total

Direct

Indirect

J J M van Zyl

 745 

 — 

 745 

 745 

 — 

Total

 745 

Mr J P Bekker has an indirect 25% interest in Wheatfields 221 (Proprietary) Limited, which controls 

168 605 Naspers Beleggings Beperk ordinary shares, 16 860 500 Keeromstraat 30 Beleggings 

Beperk ordinary shares and 133 350 Naspers A shares.

No other director of Naspers had any direct interest in Naspers A ordinary shares at 31 March 

2011 or 31 March 2010.

124

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STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

The directors of Naspers (and their associates) had the following interests in Naspers N ordinary 
shares as at 31 March:

31 March 2011

31 March 2010

Naspers N ordinary shares

Naspers N ordinary shares

Beneficial

Beneficial

Name

Direct

Indirect

Total

Direct

Indirect

Total

T Vosloo
J P Bekker5
J J M van Zyl
L N Jonker
N P van Heerden
B J van der Ross1
G J Gerwel
H S S Willemse2
F-A du Plessis
T M F Phaswana3
L P Retief4
R C C Jafta
S J Z Pacak6
D Meyer

Notes

—
3 895 936
50 361
1 000
—
—
—
85
—
—
—
—
300 510
—

213 000
4 688 691
190 796
52 000
2 600
400
—
3 205
—
3 530
—
—
282 548
—

213 000
8 584 627
241 157
53 000
2 600
400
—
3 290
—
3 530
—
—
583 058
—

—
213 000
— 4 688 691
190 796
52 000
2 600
400
—
3 205
—
3 530
—
—
307 548
—

50 361
1 000
—
—
—
85
—
—
—
—
122 510
—

213 000
4 688 691
241 157
53 000
2 600
400
—
3 290
—
3 530
—
—
430 058
—

4 247 892

5 436 770

9 684 662

173 956

5 461 770

5 635 726

1    It has been ascertained that the Van der Ross Family Trust acquired 400 Naspers N ordinary shares on 18 August 2008. 

The comparatives have been adjusted accordingly.

   Furthermore, on 21 April 2011 this trust acquired 100 Naspers N ordinary shares. The trade was implemented by the 

investment manager without specific approval from Mr B J van der Ross. The investment manager accepted full 
responsibility for the breach in the JSE Listings Requirements.

2    In April 2004, in terms of a scheme of arrangement, Naspers acquired all the ordinary shares of M-Net and SuperSport for 
a cash distribution and 4,2365 Naspers shares for every 100 linked units in M-Net/SuperSport. It has been ascertained that 
Mr H S S Willemse and one of his associates were entitled to receive 85 Naspers N ordinary shares each in terms of this 
transaction. The comparatives have been adjusted accordingly.

3    Mr T M F Phaswana’s shares were reclassified from direct to indirect. The comparatives have been adjusted accordingly.
4    The Media24 group entered into a contract with the Retief family trust in October 2008, which contains a put option 

whereby the Retief family trust can enforce a buy-out by Media24 group of their remaining interest in Paarl Media Holdings 
(Proprietary) Limited (currently 5%) and Paarl Coldset (Proprietary) Limited (currently 12,6%). Mr L P Retief, a director of 
Naspers Limited, is a related party to the Retief family trust.

5    At 31 March 2011, 3 895 936 Naspers N ordinary shares at an offer price of R167,23 per share were released and 

reserved for Mr J P Bekker in the Naspers share incentive scheme.

6  During the financial year Naspers N ordinary shares were released and reserved for Mr S J Z Pacak in the Naspers group’s 

share incentive schemes.
Except as set out in note 1 above there have been no changes to the directors’ interests in the 
table above between the end of the financial year and 24 June 2011.

Prof G J Gerwel

Chairman: Human resources and remuneration committee

24 June 2011

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INFORMATION

Report of the audit committee

for the year ended 31 March 2011

The audit committee has pleasure in submitting 

(cid:116)(cid:1) (cid:1)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:87)(cid:74)(cid:70)(cid:88)(cid:70)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:77)(cid:70)(cid:72)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:1)(cid:78)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:86)(cid:77)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:73)(cid:66)(cid:87)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:1)

this report, as required by sections 269A and 

significant impact on the organisation’s 

270A of the South African Companies Act  

financial statements.

No 61 of 1973 (“the Act”).

(cid:96)   Reviewed external audit reports on the 

FUNCTIONS OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE

The audit committee has adopted formal terms 

of reference, delegated by the board of 

directors, as its audit committee charter.

annual financial statements.

(cid:96)   Reviewed the board-approved internal 

audit charter. No amendments were 

recommended to the board by the 

committee. 

The audit committee has discharged the 

(cid:96)   Reviewed and approved the internal audit 

functions in terms of its charter and ascribed to 

plan.

it in terms of the Act as follows:

(cid:96)   Reviewed internal audit and risk 

(cid:96)   Reviewed the interim, provisional and 

management reports and, where relevant, 

year-end financial statements and integrated 

made recommendations to the board.

annual report, culminating in a 

(cid:96)   Evaluated the effectiveness of risk 

recommendation to the board to adopt them. 

management, controls and governance 

In the course of its review the committee:

processes.

(cid:116)(cid:1) (cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:80)(cid:76)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:83)(cid:80)(cid:81)(cid:83)(cid:74)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:84)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:81)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:80)(cid:1)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:84)(cid:86)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:1)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:70)(cid:1)

(cid:96)   Verified the independence of the 

financial statements were prepared in 

external auditor, nominated 

accordance with International Financial 

PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc. as auditor for 

Reporting Standards (IFRS) and in the 

2011 and noted the appointment of 

manner required by the Act

Mr Anton Wentzel as the designated  

(cid:116)(cid:1) (cid:1)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:84)(cid:74)(cid:69)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:70)(cid:69)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:79)(cid:69)(cid:13)(cid:1)(cid:88)(cid:73)(cid:70)(cid:79)(cid:1)(cid:66)(cid:81)(cid:81)(cid:83)(cid:80)(cid:81)(cid:83)(cid:74)(cid:66)(cid:85)(cid:70)(cid:13)(cid:1)(cid:78)(cid:66)(cid:69)(cid:70)(cid:1)

auditor.

recommendations on internal financial 

(cid:96)   Approved audit fees and engagement 

controls

terms of the external auditor.

(cid:116)(cid:1) (cid:1)(cid:69)(cid:70)(cid:66)(cid:77)(cid:85)(cid:1)(cid:88)(cid:74)(cid:85)(cid:73)(cid:1)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:68)(cid:70)(cid:83)(cid:79)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:83)(cid:1)(cid:68)(cid:80)(cid:78)(cid:81)(cid:77)(cid:66)(cid:74)(cid:79)(cid:85)(cid:84)(cid:1)(cid:80)(cid:79)(cid:1)

(cid:96)   Determined the nature and extent of 

accounting policies, internal audit, the 

auditing or content of annual financial 

allowable non-audit services and approved 

contract terms for non-audit services by the 

statements, and internal financial controls, 

external auditor.

and

126

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

MEMBERS OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE AND 

independent and has the necessary resources, 

ATTENDANCE AT MEETINGS

standing and authority in the organisation to 

The audit committee consists of the 

discharge its duties. The committee oversees 

non-executive directors listed below and 

cooperation between internal and external 

meets at least three times per annum in 

auditors, and serves as a link between the 

accordance with its charter. All members 

board of directors and these functions. The 

act independently as described in section 

head of internal audit reports functionally to the 

269A of the Act. During the year under 

chair of the committee and administratively to 

review, four meetings were held. Details of 
attendance are on page 115 of the 

integrated annual report.

Name of  
committee  
member

Qualifications

J J M van Zyl

PrEng and 
BScEng(Mechanical) (UCT)

R C C Jafta

MEcon and PhD

the financial director.

ATTENDANCE

The internal and external auditors, in their 

capacity as auditors to the group, attended 

and reported at all meetings of the audit 

committee. The group risk management 

function was also represented. Executive 

directors and relevant senior managers 

F-A du Plessis 

BComHons (Taxation), LLB 
and CA(SA)

attended meetings by invitation.

B J van der Ross

DipLaw (UCT)

CONFIDENTIAL MEETINGS

All committee members, with the exception of 

Mr Van der Ross who was appointed with 

effect from 17 June 2010, served on the 

committee for the full financial year.

INTERNAL AUDIT

The audit committee has oversight of the 

group’s financial statements and reporting 

process, including the system of internal 

financial control. It is responsible for ensuring 

the group’s internal audit function is 

Audit committee agendas provide for 

confidential meetings between committee 

members and the internal and external 

auditors.

INDEPENDENCE OF THE EXTERNAL AUDITOR

During the year the audit committee reviewed a 

representation by the external auditor and, 

after conducting its own review, confirmed the 

independence of the auditor.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

127

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Report of the audit committee (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2011

EXPERTISE AND EXPERIENCE OF FINANCIAL 

legal and other responsibilities as outlined in 

DIRECTOR AND THE FINANCE FUNCTION

terms of its remit, details of which are included 

As required by the JSE Listings Requirement 

on page 103 of this report. The board 

3.84(h), the audit committee has satisfied itself 

concurred with this assessment.

that the financial director has appropriate 

expertise and experience.

In addition, the committee satisfied itself that 

the composition, experience and skills set of 

the finance function met the group’s 

requirements.

DISCHARGE OF RESPONSIBILITIES

J J M van Zyl 

The committee determined that during the 

Chairman: Audit committee

financial year under review it had discharged its 

24 June 2011

128

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
Summarised annual 
fi nancial statements

Strategically focused 
on long-term 
business success

L
A
U
N
N
A
D
E
S
R
A
M
M
U
S

I

S
T
N
E
M
E
T
A
T
S

I

L
A
C
N
A
N
F

I

 
 
 
THE NASPERS 
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Summarised annual
fi nancial statements

Index

Statement of responsibility by the board of directors 

Report of the independent auditor 

Basis of presentation and accounting policies 

Segmental review 

Reconciliation of trading profi t to operating profi t 

Consolidated income statement 

Condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity 

Condensed consolidated statement of fi nancial position 

Condensed consolidated statement of cash fl ows 

Calculation of headline and core headline earnings 

Supplementary information 

Business combinations and signifi cant acquisitions 

131

132

133

134

135

136

137

138

139

140

141

142

144

130

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Statement of responsibility by the board of directors
for the year ended 31 March 2011

The summarised financial statements of the 

The independent auditing firm 

group are the responsibility of the directors of 

PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc., which was given 

Naspers Limited. In discharging this 

unrestricted access to all financial records and 

responsibility, they rely on the management of 

related data, including minutes of all meetings 

the group to prepare the annual financial 

of shareholders, the board of directors and 

statements on pages 133 to 144 in 

committees of the board, has audited the 

accordance with International Financial 

group annual financial statements from which 

Reporting Standards (IFRS) and the South 

the summarised financial statements were 

African Companies Act No 61 of 1973. As 

derived. The directors believe that all 

such, the summarised financial statements 

representations made to the independent 

include amounts based on judgements and 

auditor during his audit were valid and 

estimates made by management. The 

appropriate. PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc.’s 

information given is comprehensive and 

audit report is presented on page 132.

presented in a responsible manner.

The summarised financial statements were 

The directors accept responsibility for the 

approved by the board of directors on  

preparation, integrity and fair presentation of 

24 June 2011 and are signed on its behalf by:

the summarised financial statements and are 

satisfied that the systems and internal financial 

controls implemented by management are 
effective.

The directors believe that the company 

and group have adequate resources to 

continue operations as a going concern in 

the foreseeable future, based on forecasts 

and available cash resources. The annual 

financial statements support the viability of 

the company and the group.

T Vosloo

Chairman

J P Bekker

Chief executive

24 June 2011

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

131

 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Report of the independent auditor on the summarised group 
annual financial statements
to the members of Naspers Limited

The summarised group annual financial 

statements, which comprise the condensed 

AUDITOR’S RESPONSIBILITY
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on 

consolidated statement of financial position as 

the summarised group annual financial 

at 31 March 2011, and the condensed 

statements based on our procedures, which 

consolidated income statement and 

were conducted in accordance with 

condensed consolidated statements of 

International Standard on Auditing (ISA) 810, 

comprehensive income, changes in equity and 

“Engagements to Report on Summary 

cash flows for the year then ended, and 

Financial Statements”.

related notes, as set out on pages 133 to 

144, are derived from the audited group 

annual financial statements of Naspers Limited 

for the year ended 31 March 2011. We 

expressed an unmodified audit opinion on 

those group annual financial statements in our 

report dated 24 June 2011. 

The summarised group annual financial 

statements do not contain all the disclosures 

required by International Financial Reporting 

Standards and in the manner required by 
the South African Companies Act No 61 of 

1973. Reading the summarised group annual 

financial statements, therefore, is not a 

substitute for reading the audited group 

annual financial statements of Naspers 

Limited.

DIRECTORS’ RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE 
SUMMARISED GROUP ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS 
The company’s directors are responsible  

OPINION
In our opinion, the summarised group annual 

financial statements derived from the audited 

group annual financial statements of Naspers 

Limited for the year ended 31 March 2011 are 

consistent, in all material respects, with those 

group annual financial statements, in 

accordance with the requirements of section 

8.57 of the JSE Limited Listings 

Requirements.

PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc.

Director: Anton Wentzel

Registered auditor

for the preparation of the summarised group 

Cape Town, South Africa

annual financial statements in accordance  

24 June 2011

with the requirements of section 8.57 of  

the JSE Limited Listings Requirements.

132

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Basis of presentation and accounting policies

The summarised annual financial statements 

 The total amount reallocated to investing 

for the year ended 31 March 2011 have been 

activities was R404m for the year ended 

prepared in accordance with IAS 34 and 

31 March 2010.

International Financial Reporting Standards 

(IFRS), the requirements of the South African 

(cid:96)   IFRS 3 Revised “Business Combinations” 
and IAS 27 Revised “Consolidated and 

Companies Act No 61 of 1973, and in 

Separate Financial Statements” were 

compliance with the Listings Requirements of 

adopted. The effect of these standards is 

the JSE Limited. Except as noted below, 

recorded in the line item “Gains on 

accounting policies used are consistent with 

acquisitions and disposals” on the income 

those applied in the previous annual financial 

statement. These items are adjusted for in 

statements and IFRS. These results have been 

the calculation of headline and core headline 

audited by the company’s auditor, 

earnings.

PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc., whose 

  The MWEB business is now reported in the 

unqualified report is available for inspection at 

pay-television rather than the internet segment. 

the registered office of the company.

It is working on technologies to deliver video 

The group adopted the following new 

content. Comparative segmental results have 

standards and amendments for the year 

been restated in accordance with IFRS 8 

ended 31 March 2011:
(cid:96)   IAS 7 “Statement of Cash Flows” has been 
amended and now requires changes in 

“Operating Segments”.

Our share of associates’ other 

comprehensive income and reserves relates 

interests in a subsidiary that do not result in 

mainly to the revaluation of the associates’ 

a loss of control to be recorded in financing 

available-for-sale investments.

activities as opposed to investing activities. 

Core headline earnings exclude once-off and 

This amendment is effective retrospectively, 

non-operating items. We believe that it is a 

resulting in the restatement of the statement 

useful measure for shareholders of the group’s 

of cash flows. Preference dividends received 

sustainable operating performance. However, 

are now recorded in investing activities as 

this is not a defined term under IFRS and may 

opposed to financing activities. 

not be comparable with similarly titled 

measures reported by other companies.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

133

 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Segmental review
for the year ended 31 March 2011

Revenue

Year ended 31 March

2010
R’m

 17 603 

 8 237 

 4 874 

 3 363 

 10 204 

 1 207 

 37 251 

 (9 253)

 27 998 

EBITDA

Year ended 31 March

2010
R’m

 5 851 

 2 697 

 2 542 

  155 

 1 232 

  98 

 9 878 

 (230)

 (3 152)

 6 496 

2011
R’m

 21 025 

 12 092 

 7 215 

 4 877 

 10 758 

 1 228 

 45 103 

 (12 018)

 33 085 

2011
R’m

 6 542 

 3 945 

 3 795 

  150 

 1 194 

  188 

 11 869 

 (239)

 (4 481)

 7 149 

%
change

  19 

  47 

  48 

  45 

  5 

  2 

  21 

  30 

  18 

%
change

  12 

  46 

  49 

 (3)

 (3)

  92 

  20 

  4 

  42 

  10 

Pay television

Internet

– Tencent

– Other

Print 

Technology

Economic interest

Less: Associates

Consolidated

Pay television

Internet

– Tencent

– Other

Print 

Technology

Economic interest

Corporate services

Less: Associates

Consolidated

134

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Segmental review (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2011

Trading profit

Year ended 31 March

2011
R’m

 5 727 

 3 493 

 3 543 

 (50)

  872 

  128 

 10 220 

 (240)

 (4 142)

 5 838 

2010
R’m

 5 232 

 2 362 

 2 363 

 (1)

  896 

  47 

 8 537 

 (232)

 (2 858)

 5 447 

%
change

  9 

  48 

  50 

 +100 

 (3)

 +100 

  20 

  3 

  45 

  7 

Pay television

Internet

– Tencent

– Other

Print 

Technology

Economic interest

Corporate services

Less: Associates

Consolidated

Note

Trading profit excludes amortisation of intangible assets (other than software) and other gains/losses, but includes the finance cost 
on transponder leases.

Reconciliation of trading profit to operating profit
for the year ended 31 March 2011

Trading profit

Finance cost on transponder leases

Amortisation of intangible assets

Other gains/(losses) – net

Operating profit 

Note

Year ended 31 March

2011
 R’m 

 5 838 

 144 

 (1 045)

 (881)

 4 056 

2010
 R’m 

 5 447 

 93 

 (1 135)

 (364)

 4 041

For a reconciliation of operating profit to profit before taxation, refer to the consolidated income statement.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

135

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Consolidated income statement
for the year ended 31 March 2011

31 March 
2011 
R’m

33 085

(17 794)

(10 354)

(881)

31 March 
2010 
R’m

27 998

(14 438)

(9 155)

(364)

%
change

18

4 056

401

(1 389)

(30)

3 290

(23)

1 461

42

7 808

(1 861)

5 947

5 260

687

5 947

6 036

1 612

1 550

4 213

1 125

1 082

1 405

1 351

4 041

348

(883)

114

2 058

(62)

—

144

5 760

(1 808)

3 952

3 257

695

3 952

5 319

1 426

1 386

3 297

884

859

873

848

375 440

374 501

389 465

374 308

372 951

383 820

60

36

50

13

13

12

28

27

26

61

59

Revenue

Cost of providing services and sale of goods

Selling, general and administration expenses

Other gains/(losses) – net

Operating profit

Interest received

Interest paid

Other finance income/(costs) – net

Share of equity-accounted results

Impairment of equity-accounted investments

Dilution gains on equity-accounted investments

Gains on acquisitions and disposals

Income before taxation

Taxation

Profit for the year

Attributable to:

Equity holders of the group

Non-controlling interest

Core headline earnings for the period 

Core headline earnings per N ordinary share 
(cents)

Fully diluted core headline earnings per 
N ordinary share (cents)

Headline earnings for the period

Headline earnings per N ordinary share (cents)

Fully diluted headline earnings per N ordinary 
share (cents)

Earnings per N ordinary share (cents)

Fully diluted earnings per N ordinary share 
(cents)

Net number of shares issued (’000)

– At period-end

– Weighted average for the period

– Fully diluted weighted average

136

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income
for the year ended 31 March 2011

Profit for the year

Total other comprehensive income, net of tax, for  
the year

Translation of foreign operations

Cash flow hedges

Share of associates’ other comprehensive income and 
reserves

Tax on other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year

Attributable to:

Equity holders of the group

Non-controlling interest

31 March 
2011
R’m

5 947

2 277

(461)

126

2 622

(10)

8 224

7 543

681

8 224

31 March 
2010
R’m

3 952

(2 047)

(1 918)

(560)

250

181

1 905

1 308

597

1 905

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

137

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity
for the year ended 31 March 2011

Balance at beginning of the year

Changes in share capital and premium

Movement in treasury shares

Share capital and premium issued

Changes in reserves

Total comprehensive income for the year

Movement in share-based compensation reserve

Movement in existing control business combination reserve

Direct retained earnings movements

Dividends paid to Naspers shareholders

Changes in non-controlling interest

Total comprehensive income for the year

Dividends paid to non-controlling shareholders

Movement in non-controlling interest in reserves

Balance at end of year

Comprising:

Share capital and premium

Retained earnings

Share-based compensation reserve

Existing control business combination reserve

Hedging reserve

Valuation reserve

Foreign currency translation reserve

Non-controlling interest

Total

31 March 
2011
R’m

31 March 
2010
R’m

35 634

35 217

(335)

253

(1 041)

433

7 543

1 308

508

(63)

(22)

(882)

681

(665)

290

498

(334)

(22)

(773)

597

(311)

62

42 942

35 634

14 384

21 179

2 300

25

(297)

4 256

(1 185)

2 280

42 942

14 466

16 823

1 573

98

(408)

1 844

(736)

1 974

35 634

138

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Condensed consolidated statement of financial position
at 31 March 2011

31 March 
2011
R’m

31 March 
2010
R’m

ASSETS
Non-current assets

Property, plant and equipment
Goodwill
Other intangible assets
Investment in associates
Other investments and loans
Deferred taxation

Current assets

Inventory
Programme and film rights
Trade receivables
Other receivables and loans
Cash and cash equivalents
Assets classified as held-for-sale

Total assets

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Share capital and reserves
Non-controlling shareholders’ interest

Total equity

Non-current liabilities

Capitalised finance leases
Liabilities  – interest-bearing

– non-interest-bearing
Post-retirement medical liability
Derivatives
Deferred taxation

Current liabilities

Current portion of long-term debt
Trade payables
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
Derivatives
Bank overdrafts and call loans

Total equity and liabilities

Net asset value per N ordinary share (cents)

53 610

7 561
17 278
3 886
20 767
3 301
817

16 245

731
1 487
2 929
2 330
8 731
37

69 855

40 662
2 280

42 942

14 951

1 893
10 822
178
179
714
1 165

11 962

1 510
1 915
6 608
599
1 330

69 855

10 831

44 342

6 490
16 620
4 976
11 942
3 500
814

13 126

693
1 298
2 438
1 900
6 785
12

57 468

33 660
1 974

35 634

10 892

1 736
6 983
51
178
684
1 260

10 942

1 675
1 721
5 740
847
959

57 468

8 993

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

139

 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Condensed consolidated statement of cash flows
for the year ended 31 March 2011

Cash flow from operating activities

Cash flow utilised in investing activities

Cash flow generated from/(utilised in) financing activities

Net movement in cash and cash equivalents

Foreign exchange translation adjustments

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

31 March 
2011
R’m

31 March 
2010
R’m

5 271

(5 778)

2 513

2 006

(431)

5 826

7 401

5 622

(4 752)

(169)

701

(678)

5 803

5 826

140

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Calculation of headline and core headline earnings
for the year ended 31 March 2011

Net profit attributable to shareholders

Adjusted for:

– insurance proceeds

– impairment of property, plant, equipment and other assets

– impairment and derecognition of goodwill and intangible assets

–  profit on sale of property, plant and equipment and  

intangible assets

– profit on sale of investments

– dilution gains on equity-accounted investments

– remeasurements included in equity-accounted earnings

– impairment of equity-accounted investments

Total tax effects of adjustments

Total adjustment for non-controlling interest

Headline earnings

Adjusted for:

– treasury-settled share scheme charges

– prior year withholding taxes

– reversal of deferred tax assets

– amortisation of intangible assets

– Welkom Yizani refinancing

– fair value adjustments and currency translation differences

– RCF – accelerated amortisation of costs

– acquisition-related costs

Core headline earnings

31 March 
2011
R’m

5 260

(51)

25

1 035

(407)

(152)

(1 461)

(28)

23

4 244

(27)

(4)

4 213

488

—

13

1 052

—

18

128

124

6 036

31 March 
2010
R’m

3 257

(369)

225

384

(229)

(120)

—

30

62

3 240

7

50

3 297

418

121

253

922

330

(22)

—

—

5 319

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

141

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Supplementary information
for the year ended 31 March 2011

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment

Amortisation

– intangible assets

– software

Other gains/(losses) – net

–  profit/(loss) on sale of property, plant and equipment  

and intangible assets

–  impairment and derecognition of goodwill and  

intangible assets

– impairment of tangible assets

– Welkom Yizani refinancing

– insurance proceeds

– profit on transponder lease settlement

– fair value adjustment on shareholders’ liability

Interest received

– loans and bank accounts

– other

Interest paid

– loans and overdrafts

– transponder leases

– RCF costs – accelerated amortisation

– other

Other finance income/(cost) – net

–  net foreign exchange differences and fair value  

adjustments on derivatives

– preference dividends received

Gains on acquisitions and disposals

– profit on sale of investments

– profit on partial disposal of investments

– acquisition-related costs

– other

142

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

31 March 
2011
R’m

1 040

1 172

1 045

127

(881)

42

(1 035)

(33)

—

51

88

6

401

308

93

(1 389)

(883)

(144)

(128)

(234)

(30)

(247)

217

42

34

72

(109)

45

31 March 
2010
R’m

878

1 213

1 135

78

(364)

(47)

(384)

(225)

(330)

369

253

—

348

314

34

(883)

(600)

(93)

—

(190)

114

(154)

268

144

144

—

—

—

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Supplementary information (continued)
for the year ended 31 March 2011

31 March 
2011
R’m

31 March 
2010
R’m

Goodwill
– cost
– accumulated impairment

Opening balance

– foreign currency translation effects
– acquisitions
– contingent consideration adjustment
– impairment and derecognition

Closing balance

– cost
– accumulated impairment

Investments and loans

– listed investments
– unlisted investments

Market value of listed investments
Directors’ valuation of unlisted investments
Commitments

– capital expenditure
– programme and film rights
– network and other service commitments
– transponder leases
– operating lease commitments
– set-top box commitments

Share of equity-accounted results
– dilution gains
– FCTR release
– impairment of investments
– (gains)/losses on acquisitions and disposals

Contribution to headline earnings
– amortisation of intangible assets
– treasury-settled share scheme charges
– business combination costs
– reversal of deferred taxation

Contribution to core headline earnings

Tencent
Mail.ru
Abril
Other

17 051
(431)

16 620

(510)
1 885
(49)
(668)

17 278

18 371
(1 093)

24 068

16 874
7 194

137 735
7 194
16 997

401
7 744
700
6 787
896
469

3 290
(39)
(29)
24
(262)

2 984
355
227
15
13

3 594

3 164
152
250
28

15 407
(49)

15 358

(1 163)
2 807
—
(382)

16 620

17 051
(431)

15 442

4 646
10 796

92 843
10 796
18 626

527
8 698
656
7 689
697
359

2 058
(64)
—
—
100

2 094
180
148
—
101

2 523

2 148
70
318
(13)

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

143

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Business combinations and significant acquisitions

In August 2010 the group consolidated its 
internet interests in Russia, acquiring a 28,7% in 
Digital Sky Technologies (DST), a prominent 
internet company in Russian-speaking markets. 
In consideration, the group contributed its 39,3% 
investment in Mail.ru and US$388m in cash.

In August 2010 the group acquired a 67,8% 

fully diluted interest in OLX Inc., an online 
classifieds business. The fair value of the total 
purchase consideration was R1 044m 
(US$144m) cash. The purchase price allocation 
(PPA): PP&E R3m; intangible assets R260m; 
cash R237m; other current assets R59m; trade 
and other payables R35m; deferred tax liability 
R103m and the balance to goodwill. The main 
factor contributing to the goodwill recognised is 
the company’s presence in the classifieds sector 
in the emerging markets. The recognised 
goodwill is not expected to be deductible for 
income tax purposes. A non-controlling interest 
of R51m was recognised at the acquisition date. 
This was measured using the proportionate 
share of the identifiable net assets.

In December 2010 the group increased it’s 

total economic interest to 71,5% on a fully 
diluted basis. This was accounted for as a 
transaction with non-controlling interests. 
The revenue and results from OLX since the 
acquisition date were not significant to the 
group’s consolidated results.

In September 2010 the group acquired a 
73,9% fully diluted interest in Multiply Inc. which 
combines social networking with an online 
marketplace. The fair value of the total purchase 
consideration was R311m (US$44m) in cash. 
The group increased its holding in Multiply to 
74,5% during November.

The preliminary PPA: PP&E R7m; intangible 

assets R80m; cash R3m; trade and other 
receivables R2m; trade and other payables R1m; 
deferred tax liability R24m and the balance to 
goodwill. The main factor contributing to the 
goodwill recognised is the company’s significant 
user base in emerging markets. The recognised 
goodwill is not expected to be deductible for 
income tax purposes.

A non-controlling interest of R17m was 
recognised at the acquisition date, and was 
measured using the proportionate share of the 
identifiable net assets. The revenue and results 
from Multiply since the acquisition date were not 
significant to the group’s consolidated results.

In December 2010 the group acquired 100% 

of Level Up! International Holdings for a cash 
purchase consideration of R365m (US$51m). 
A PPA has not yet been performed and the 
difference between the net asset value and 
purchase consideration of R279m was allocated 
to goodwill.

In February 2011 the group acquired 77,7% 
of DineroMail, Latam’s leading internet payment 
solution, for a cash purchase consideration of 
R206m (US$28m). A PPA has not yet been 
performed and the difference between the net 
asset value and purchase consideration of 
R181m was allocated to goodwill.

Total acquisition-related costs of R109m were 

recorded in “Gains on acquisitions and 
disposals” in the income statement. Had the 
revenues and net results of all business 
combinations that occurred in the period been 
included from 1 April 2010 it would not have had 
a significant effect on the group’s consolidated 
revenue and net results.

144

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

Shareholder and 
corporate information

Applying appropriate 
corporate governance 
and policies

D
N
A
R
E
D
L
O
H
E
R
A
H
S

I

N
O
T
A
M
R
O
F
N

I

E
T
A
R
O
P
R
O
C

 
 
 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED 
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Administration and corporate information

GROUP SECRETARY
G Kisbey-Green 

251 Oak Avenue

Randburg 2194

South Africa

REGISTERED OFFICE
40 Heerengracht  

Cape Town 8001  

South Africa  

PO Box 2271  

Cape Town 8000  

South Africa  

Tel: +27 (0)21 406 2121  

Fax: +27 (0)21 406 3753

REGISTRATION NUMBER
1925/001431/06  

Incorporated in South Africa

AUDITOR
PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc.

TRANSFER SECRETARIES
Link Market Services South Africa 

(Proprietary) Limited  

(Registration number: 2000/007239/07)  

PO Box 4844, Johannesburg 2000  

South Africa  

Tel: +27 (0)11 630 0800  

Fax: +27 (0)11 834 4398

ADR PROGRAMME
The Bank of New York Mellon maintains  

a Global BuyDIRECT™ plan for Naspers Limited.  

For additional information, please visit  

The Bank of New York Mellon’s website at  

www.globalbuydirect.com 

or call Shareholder Relations at  

1-888-BNY-ADRS  

or 1-800-345-1612 or write to:  

The Bank of New York Mellon  

Shareholder Relations Department –  

Global BuyDIRECT™  

Church Street Station  

PO Box 11258, New York, NY 10286-1258, USA

SPONSOR
Investec Bank Limited  

(Registration number: 1969/004763/06)  

PO Box 785700, Sandton 2146  

South Africa  

Tel: +27 (0)11 286 7326  

Fax: +27 (0)11 286 9986

ATTORNEYS
Werksmans incorporating Jan S de Villiers  

PO Box 1474, Cape Town 8000  

South Africa

INVESTOR RELATIONS
M Horn  

meloy.horn@naspers.com  
Tel: +27 (0)11 289 3320  

Fax: +27 (0)11 289 3026

www.naspers.com

146

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Analysis of shareholders and shareholders’ diary 

ANALYSIS OF SHAREHOLDERS

Size of holdings

       1 – 100 shares
   101 – 1 000 shares
1 001 – 5 000 shares
5 001 – 10 000 shares
More than 10 000 shares

Number of 

Number of 

shareholders

shares owned

19 460
19 035
3 630
547
1 156

732 907
6 882 891
7 795 757
4 006 261
387 164 095

The following shareholders hold 5% and more of the issued share capital of the company: 

Name

Public Investment Corporation
Dodge & Cox Incorporated
Capital World Investors
Coronation Fund Managers (Proprietary) Limited

Number of 

shares owned

41 404 675
29 795 695
27 761 600
21 126 278

Public shareholder spread
To the best knowledge of the directors, the spread of public shareholders in terms of section 4.25 

of the JSE Limited’s Listings Requirements at 31 March 2011 was 92,19%, represented by 

43 809 shareholders holding 374 810 522 ordinary shares in the company. The non-public 

shareholders of the company comprising 19 shareholders representing 31 771 389 ordinary 

shares are analysed as follows:

Category

Naspers Share Trust
Directors 
Group companies

SHAREHOLDERS’ DIARY
Annual general meeting
Reports

Interim for half-year to September

  Announcement of annual results
  Annual financial statements
Dividend
  Declaration
  Payment
Financial year-end

Number of 

% of issued 

shares

share capital

17 377 456
9 684 662
4 709 271

4,3
2,4
1,2

August

November
 June
July

August
September
March

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

147

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Notice of annual general meeting

Notice is hereby given in terms of the 
Companies Act No 71 of 2008, as amended 
(“the Act”) that the ninety-seventh annual 
general meeting of Naspers Limited  
(”the company” or “Naspers”) will be held  
on the 18th floor of Naspers Centre, 
40 Heerengracht in Cape Town, South Africa, 
on Friday, 26 August 2011 at 11:15.

RECORD DATE, ATTENDANCE AND VOTING
The record date for the meeting (determined 
in accordance with section 59(3)(a) of the 
Act) is 28 July 2011, being the date on which 
a person must be registered as a shareholder 
of the company for purposes of being entitled 
to receive notice of the annual general 
meeting.

Votes at the annual general meeting will be 

taken by way of a poll and not on a show of 
hands.

A shareholder entitled to attend and vote 
at the meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy 
to attend, participate in and vote at the 
meeting in the place of the shareholder. 
A proxy need not be a shareholder of the 
company.

Before any person may attend or 

participate in a shareholders’ meeting that 
person must present reasonably satisfactory 
identification and the person presiding at the 
meeting must be reasonably satisfied that the 
right of that person to participate and vote, 
either as a shareholder, or as a proxy for a 
shareholder, has been reasonably verified. 
Forms of identification include valid identity 
documents, driver’s licences and passports.

A form of proxy, which includes the 
relevant instructions for its completion, is 
attached for the use of holders of certificated 
shares and “own name” dematerialised 

shareholders who wish to be represented at 
the annual general meeting. Completion of a 
form of proxy will not preclude such a 
shareholder from attending and voting (in 
preference to that shareholder’s proxy) at the 
annual general meeting.

Holders of dematerialised shares, other 

than “own name” dematerialised 
shareholders, who wish to vote at the annual 
general meeting must instruct their central 
securities depositary participant (CSDP) or 
broker accordingly in the manner and cut-off 
time stipulated by their CSDP or broker.

Holders of dematerialised shares, other 

than “own name” dematerialised 
shareholders, who wish to attend the annual 
general meeting in person need to arrange 
the necessary authorisation as soon as 
possible through their CSDP or broker.
The form appointing a proxy and the 
authority (if any) under which it is signed 
must reach the transfer secretaries of the 
company (Link Market Services South Africa 
(Proprietary) Limited, 13th floor – Rennie 
House, 19 Ameshoff Street, Braamfontein 
2001 or PO Box 4844, Johannesburg 2000) 
by no later than 11:15 on Thursday, 
25 August 2011. A form of proxy is enclosed 
with this notice. The form of proxy may also 
be obtained from the registered office of the 
company.

PURPOSE OF MEETING
The purpose of the meeting is (i) to present the 
directors’ report and the audited annual 
financial statements of the company for the 
immediately preceding financial year and an 
audit committee report and (ii) to consider and, 
if approved, to adopt with or without 
amendment, the resolutions set out below and 

148

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Notice of annual general meeting (continued)

(iii) to consider any matters raised by the 
shareholders of the company, with or without 
advance notice to the company.

number of votes which may be exercised by 
the shareholders present or represented by 
proxy at this meeting.

ELECTRONIC PARTICIPATION
Shareholders entitled to attend and vote at the 
meeting or proxies of such shareholders shall be 
entitled to participate in the meeting (but not vote) 
by electronic communication. Should a 
shareholder wish to participate in the meeting by 
electronic communication, the shareholder 
concerned should advise the company thereof 
by no later than 09:00 on Friday, 19 August 2011 
by submitting via registered mail addressed  
to the company (for the attention of  
Mrs Gillian Kisbey-Green) relevant contact 
details as well as full details of the 
shareholder’s title to securities issued by the 
company and proof of identity, in the form of 
certified copies of identity documents and 
share certificates (in the case of materialised 
shares) and (in the case of dematerialised 
shares) written confirmation from the 
shareholder’s CSDP confirming the 
shareholder’s title to the dematerialised shares. 
Upon receipt of the required information, the 
shareholder concerned will be provided with a 
secure code and instructions to access the 
electronic communication during the annual 
general meeting. Shareholders must note that 
access to the electronic communication will be 
at the expense of the shareholders who wish 
to utilise the facility.

ORDINARY RESOLUTIONS
In order for the ordinary resolutions below to 
be adopted, the support of a majority of votes 
exercised by shareholders present or 
represented by proxy at this meeting is 
required. Ordinary resolutions numbers 8 and 9 
require the support of at least 75% of the total 

1. 

 The financial statements of the company and 
the group for the twelve (12) months ended 
31 March 2011 and the reports of the 
directors, the auditor and the audit 
committee to be considered and accepted.

 (The summarised form of the financial 
statements is included on pages 130  
to 144 of the annual integrated report).

 A copy of the complete annual financial 
statements of the company for the 
preceding financial year is enclosed with 
this notice and can also be obtained at 
www.naspers.com.

 The confirmation and approval of payment 
of dividends in relation to the N ordinary 
and A ordinary shares of the company as 
recommended by the board after having 
applied the solvency and liquidity tests 
contemplated in the Act.

 To reappoint, on the recommendation of the 
company’s audit committee, the firm 
PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc. as independent 
registered auditor of the company (noting that 
Mr A Wentzel is the individual registered 
auditor of that firm who will undertake the 
audit) for the period until the next annual 
general meeting of the company.

 To elect Adv F-A du Plessis, Prof 
G J Gerwel and Messrs T M F Phaswana, 
B J van der Ross and J J M van Zyl, who 
retire by rotation and, being eligible, offer 
themselves for re-election as directors of 
the company. Their abridged curricula vitae 
appear on pages 111 to 113 of the 
integrated annual report.

2. 

3. 

4. 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

149

 
 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Notice of annual general meeting (continued)

The board unanimously recommends that 

The appointment of the members of the audit 

the re-election of directors in terms of 
resolution 4 be approved by the shareholders 
of the company. The re-election is to be 
conducted as a series of votes, each of which 
is on the candidacy of a single individual to fill a 
single vacancy, and in each vote to fill a 
vacancy, each voting right entitled to be 
exercised may be exercised once.

5. 

 To appoint the audit committee members 
as required in terms of the Act and as 
recommended by the King Code of 
Governance for South Africa 2009 
(“King III”) (chapter 3).

The board and the nomination committee 

are satisfied that the company’s audit 
committee members are suitably skilled and 
experienced independent non-executive 
directors. Collectively they have sufficient 
qualifications and experience to fulfil their 
duties, as contemplated in regulation 42 of the 
Companies Regulations 2011. They have a 
comprehensive understanding of financial 
reporting, internal financial controls, risk 
management and governance processes within 
the company, as well as International Financial 
Reporting Standards, South African 
Statements of Generally Accepted Accounting 
Practice and other regulations and guidelines 
applicable to the company. They keep 
up-to-date with developments affecting their 
required skills-set.

  The board and the nomination committee 
therefore unanimously recommend Messrs J J 
M van Zyl and B J van der Ross, Prof R C C 
Jafta and Adv F-A du Plessis for election to the 
audit committee. Their abridged curricula vitae 
appear on pages 110 to 113 of the integrated 
annual report.

committee will be conducted by way of a 
separate vote in respect of each individual.

6. 

7. 

8. 

 To endorse the company’s remuneration 
policy, as set out in the remuneration report 
on pages 116 and 117 of the integrated 
annual report, by way of a non-binding 
advisory vote.

 To place the authorised but unissued share 
capital of the company under the control of 
the directors and to grant, until the 
conclusion of the next annual general 
meeting of the company, an unconditional 
authority to the directors to allot and issue 
at their discretion (but subject to the 
provisions of the Act, and the requirements 
of the JSE Limited (“the JSE”) and any 
other exchange on which the shares of the 
company may be quoted or listed from time 
to time) the unissued shares of the 
company on such terms and conditions 
and to such persons, whether they be 
shareholders or not, as the directors at their 
discretion deem fit.

 Subject to a minimum of 75% of the votes 
of shareholders of the company present in 
person or by proxy at the annual general 
meeting and entitled to vote, voting in 
favour thereof, the directors be authorised 
and are hereby authorised to issue 
unissued shares of a class of shares 
already in issue in the capital of the 
company for cash as and when the 
opportunity arises, subject to the 
requirements of the JSE, including the 
following:

150

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Notice of annual general meeting (continued)

(cid:96)   this authority shall not endure beyond 
the earlier of the next annual general 
meeting of the company or beyond 
fifteen (15) months from the date of the 
meeting

(cid:96)   that a paid press announcement giving 
full details, including the impact on the 
net asset value and earnings per share, 
will be published at the time of any issue 
representing, on a cumulative basis 
within one year, 5% or more of the 
number of shares of that class in issue 
prior to the issue

(cid:96)   the aggregate issue of any particular 

class of shares in any financial year will 
not exceed 5% of the issued number of 
that class of shares (including securities 
which are compulsorily convertible into 
shares of that class)

(cid:96)   that in determining the price at which an 
issue of shares will be made in terms of 
this authority, the discount at which the 
shares may be issued may not exceed 
10% of the weighted average traded 
price of the shares in question, as 
determined over the thirty (30) business 
days prior to the date that the price of 
the issue is determined, and

(cid:96)   that the shares will only be issued to 

“public shareholders” as defined in the 
Listings Requirements of the JSE, and 
not to related parties.

9. 

 To approve the following amendments to 
the trust deed of the Naspers share 
incentive scheme, Masters reference 
IT4713/97 (“the scheme”):

Changing the heading of clause 2 of the 

trust deed to DEFINITIONS AND 

INTERPRETATION and adding the following to 
clause 2:

 “closed period” any period during which 
dealing in shares by a participant is 
prohibited, whether by virtue of the 
requirements of the JSE or any other 
exchange on which the shares may from 
time to time be listed, the internal rules of 
Naspers or applicable legislation;

 “dealing” dealing in the shares which shall 
include buying and selling the shares, or 
accepting or exercising an offer to acquire the 
shares or to dispose of the shares, or paying 
the purchase price or receiving the selling 
price in respect of the shares, or taking any 
other action in relation to the shares;

 2.4  Whenever the last day of any period 
stipulated in this trust deed falls within a 
closed period, the stipulated period shall be 
extended to a date ninety (90) days after 
the expiry of the closed period or a date 
ninety (90) days after the expiry of any 
subsequent closed period(s), should 
another/further closed period(s) occur 
during the ninety (90) day extension period.

The trust deed of the scheme in its amended 

form will be available for inspection by 
shareholders during normal business hours 
at Naspers’s registered address, 
40 Heerengracht, Cape Town, 8000 (contact 
person Lurica Klink) and in Johannesburg at 
251 Oak Avenue, Randburg, 2194 (contact 
person Gillian Kisbey-Green) for a period of 
14 days prior to the date of this annual general 
meeting.

The amendment of the terms of the scheme 

must be approved by ordinary resolution 
requiring a 75% majority of the votes exercised 

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

151

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Notice of annual general meeting (continued)

in favour of such resolution by all shareholders present or represented by proxy at the annual general 
meeting. Votes attaching to equity securities owned or controlled by persons who are existing 
participants in the scheme and which have been acquired in terms of the scheme and may be 
impacted by the changes will be excluded from the vote.

SPECIAL RESOLUTIONS
The special resolutions set out below, require the support of at least 75% of votes exercised by 
shareholders present or represented by proxy at this meeting in order to be adopted.

SPECIAL RESOLUTIONS NUMBERS 1.1 – 1.14
The approval of the remuneration of the non-executive directors for the years ending  
31 March 2011 (that have not yet been approved and paid), 31 March 2012 and 31 March 2013,  
as follows:

Board
1.1 Chair***
1.2 Member

Commitees 

1.3 ●  Audit committee: Chair
1.4
1.5 ● Risk committee: Chair
1.6
1.7 ●   Human resources and

Member

Member

remuneration committee: Chair

1.8
1.9 ●  Nomination committee: Chair
1.10

Member

Member

Other 

1.11 Naspers representatives on Media24 
safety, health and environmental 
committee: Member

1.12 Trustee of group share schemes/other 

personnel funds

1.13 Media24 pension fund: Chair
1.14

              Trustee

31 March
2011

31 March
2012

31 March

2013**

R2 011 400*
R378 800*

R2 390 000
R430 000

R2 390 000
R430 000

R270 000*
R135 000*
R120 000*
R60 000*

R140 000*
R70 000*
R50 000*
R25 000*

R280 000
R140 000
R140 000
R70 000

R160 000
R80 000
R60 000
R30 000

R280 000
R140 000
R140 000
R70 000

R160 000
R80 000
R60 000
R30 000

R45 000

R48 000

R48 000

R32 000
R80 400
R53 600

R34 000
R85 500
R57 000

R34 000
R85 500
R57 000

   * These fees were approved by shareholders on 27 August 2010 and paid before the effective date of the Act and are reflected for 

comparative purposes only.

  ** The proposed 31 March 2013 remuneration is subject to such annual increase as may be retrospectively approved by the 

shareholders at the 2013 Naspers annual general meeting.

*** The chair of the board does not receive additional remuneration if he/she is a member of or chairs any subcommittee of the board.

152

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

THE NASPERS  
GROUP

PERFORMANCE
REVIEW

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Notice of annual general meeting (continued)

The reason and effect of special resolutions 

numbers 1.1 – 1.14 is to grant the company 
the authority to pay remuneration to its 
directors for their services as directors.

Each of the special resolutions 1.1 – 1.14 in 

respect of each of the proposed 31 March 
2011, 31 March 2012 and the proposed  
31 March 2013 remuneration will be 
considered by way of a separate vote.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION NUMBER 2
That the board may authorise the company to 
generally provide any direct or indirect financial 
assistance in the manner contemplated in and 
subject to the provisions of sections 44 and 45 
of the Act to a related or inter-related company 
or corporation, or to a member of a related or 
inter-related corporation, pursuant to the 
authority hereby conferred upon the board for 
these purposes.

The reason for and effect of special 

resolution number two is to approve generally 
the provision of financial assistance to the 
potential recipients as set out in the resolution.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION NUMBER 3
That the company or any of its subsidiaries be 
and are hereby authorised to acquire 
N ordinary shares issued by the company from 
any person whatsoever (including any director 
or prescribed officer of the company or any 
person related to any director or prescribed 
officer of the company), in terms of and subject 
to the Act and in terms of the rules and 
requirements of the JSE being that:

(cid:96)   any such acquisition of N ordinary shares 
shall be effected through the order book 
operated by the JSE trading system and 
done without any prior understanding or 
arrangement

(cid:96)   this general authority shall be valid until the 
company’s next annual general meeting, 
provided that it shall not extend beyond 
fifteen (15) months from the date of passing 
of this special resolution

(cid:96)   an announcement will be published as soon 
as the company or any of its subsidiaries 
have acquired N ordinary shares 
constituting, on a cumulative basis, 3% of 
the number of N ordinary shares in issue 
prior to the acquisition pursuant to which 
the aforesaid 3% threshold is reached, and 
for each 3% in aggregate acquired 
thereafter, containing full details of such 
acquisitions

(cid:96)   acquisitions of N ordinary shares in 

aggregate in any one financial year may not 
exceed 20% of the company’s N ordinary 
issued share capital as at the date of 
passing of this special resolution 

(cid:96)   in determining the price at which N ordinary 
shares issued by the company are acquired 
by it or any of its subsidiaries in terms of this 
general authority, the maximum premium at 
which such N ordinary shares may be 
acquired will not exceed 10% of the 
weighted average of the market value at 
which such N ordinary shares are traded on 
the JSE as determined over the five (5) 
business days immediately preceding the 
date of repurchase of such N ordinary 
shares by the company or any of its 
subsidiaries

(cid:96)   the company has been given authority by its 

articles of association

(cid:96)   at any point, the company may only appoint 
one agent to effect any repurchase on the 
company’s behalf

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Notice of annual general meeting (continued)

(cid:96)   the company’s sponsor must confirm the 

adequacy of the company’s working capital for 
purposes of undertaking the repurchase of  
N ordinary shares in writing to the JSE before 
entering the market for the repurchase

(cid:96)   the company remaining in compliance with 

the minimum shareholder spread 
requirements of the JSE Listings 
Requirements, and

(cid:96)   the company and/or its subsidiaries not 

repurchasing any N ordinary shares during a 
prohibited period as defined by the JSE 
Listings Requirements, unless a repurchase 
programme is in place where dates and 
quantities of shares to be traded during the 
prohibited period are fixed and full details of 
the programme have been disclosed in an 
announcement over the Securities Exchange 
News Service (SENS) prior to the 
commencement of the prohibited period.

Before the general repurchase is effected, 
the directors, having considered the effects of 
the repurchase of the maximum number of  
N ordinary shares in terms of the foregoing 
general authority, will ensure that for a period of 
twelve (12) months after the date of the notice 
of the annual general meeting:

(cid:96)   the company and the group will be able, in 
the ordinary course of business, to pay their 
debts

(cid:96)   the assets of the company and the group, 

fairly valued in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards, will exceed 
the liabilities of the company and the group, 
and

(cid:96)   the company and the group’s ordinary share 
capital, reserves and working capital will be 
adequate for ordinary business purposes.

The following additional information, some of 
which appears elsewhere in the integrated annual 
report of which this notice forms part and in the 
annual financial statements enclosed with this 
notice, is provided in terms of the JSE Listings 
Requirements for purposes of the general 
authority:

(cid:96)   directors – pages 110 to 113 of the 

integrated annual report

(cid:96)   major shareholders – page 147 of the 

integrated annual report

(cid:96)   directors’ interests in ordinary shares – page 

125 of the integrated annual report

(cid:96)   share capital of the company, and litigation 

– pages 66 to 68 and pages 79 to 80, 
respectively, of the annual financial statements.

Directors’ responsibility statement
The directors, whose names appear in the list 
of directors set out on pages 110 to 113 of the 
integrated annual report collectively and 
individually accept full responsibility for the 
accuracy of the information pertaining to this 
special resolution number three and certify 
that, to the best of their knowledge and belief, 
there are no facts that have been omitted 
which would make any statement false or 
misleading, and that all reasonable enquiries to 
ascertain such facts have been made and that 
special resolution number three contains all 
relevant information.

Material changes
Other than the facts and developments 
reported on in the integrated annual report and 
enclosed annual financial statements, there 
have been no material changes in the affairs or 
financial position of the company and its 
subsidiaries since the date of signature of the 
audit report and up to the date of this notice.

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SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

Notice of annual general meeting (continued)

The directors have no specific intention, at 
present, for the company to repurchase any of 
its N ordinary shares, but consider that such a 
general authority should be put in place should 
an opportunity present itself to do so during 
the year which is in the best interests of the 
company and its shareholders.

The reason for and effect of special 
resolution number three is to grant the 
company the authority in terms of the Act  
and the JSE Listings Requirements for the 
acquisition by the company, or a subsidiary of 
the company, of the company’s N ordinary 
shares.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION NUMBER 4
That the company or any of its subsidiaries be 
and are hereby authorised to acquire 
A ordinary shares issued by the company from 
any person whatsoever (including any director 
or prescribed officer of the company or any 
person related to any director or prescribed 
officer of the company), in terms of and subject 
to the Act.

The reason for and effect of special resolution 

number four is to grant the company the 
authority in terms of the Act for the acquisition by 
the company, or a subsidiary of the company, of 
the company’s A ordinary shares.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION NUMBER 5
The resolution set out below was passed (in 
part) as an ordinary resolution with the requisite 
majority vote at the annual general meeting of 
the company on 27 August 2010. In terms of 
the transitional arrangements under the Act, 
certain matters which had previously been 
approved by the company’s shareholders prior 
to the effective date of the Act are subject to 

the Act, which contains additional requirements 
that must be complied with in respect of the 
matters contemplated in this resolution. 
Shareholders are accordingly requested to 
consider and vote on this resolution as a 
special resolution.

Details of the Naspers group share-based 
incentive schemes currently in existence can 
be found in the annual financial statements of 
the company enclosed with this notice, which 
are also available on www.naspers.com.  
(The Naspers share incentive scheme 
conducted in terms of the trust deed of the 
Naspers share incentive trust, Masters 
reference IT 4713-97, the other existing group 
share-based incentive schemes and such 
group share-based schemes that are 
established in future are hereafter collectively 
referred to as ‘Naspers group share-based 
incentive schemes ’.)

Resolved, subject to the Act and Schedule 

14 of the Listings Requirements of the JSE, 
that the board of directors of Naspers shall be 
authorised for purposes of sections 41, 42, 44 
and 45 of the Act:
5.1  to allot and issue, to grant and issue 

options for the allotment or subscription 
and to grant any other rights exercisable in 
respect of up to  
40 588 541 Naspers N ordinary shares 
(which comprised 10% of Naspers’s issued 
N ordinary share capital as at March 2010) 
(“the shares”) to the Naspers group 
share-based incentive schemes and 
participants thereunder (which may include 
directors, future directors, prescribed 
officers and future prescribed officers of the 
company or of a related or inter-related 
company) (“the participants)

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Notice of annual general meeting (continued)

5.2  to make application to the JSE for the 

listing of the shares

5.3  to authorise the company to grant financial 
assistance by way of a loan, guarantee, the 
provision of security or otherwise to the 
Naspers group share-based incentive 
schemes and participants thereunder for 
the purpose of, or in connection with, the 
subscription of any option, or any 
securities, issued or to be issued by the 
company or a related or inter-related 
company, or for the purchase of any 
securities of the company or a related or 
inter-related company,

pursuant to the administration and 
implementation of the Naspers group 
share-based incentive schemes, in each 
instance on the terms applicable to the 
Naspers group share-based incentive scheme 
in question.

The reason and effect of special resolution 

number 5 is to grant the Naspers board the 
necessary authority to allot and issue up to  
40 588 541 Naspers N ordinary shares and to 
grant options, rights exercisable and financial 
assistance in respect thereof to the Naspers 
group share-based incentive schemes and 

participants thereunder, to allow for the proper 
administration and implementation of the 
Naspers group share-based incentive 
schemes.

ORDINARY RESOLUTION
10.   Each of the directors of the company is 

hereby authorised to do all things, perform 
all acts and sign all documentation 
necessary to effect the implementation of 
the ordinary and special resolutions 
adopted at this annual general meeting.

OTHER BUSINESS
To transact such other business as may be 
transacted at an annual general meeting.

By order of the board

G Kisbey-Green

Company secretary

28 July 2011

Cape Town

Note

The proxy form can be found on pages 161 to 164 of this integrated annual report.

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SUMMARISED
ANNUAL FINANCIAL 
STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

GRI G3 indicators 

INDICATORS

GRI 

Topic

Strategy and analysis

1.1

Statement from CEO

Organisational profile

2.1 – 9

Name, primary brands, operational structure, location, 
number of countries, legal form, markets served, scale, 
significant changes

2.10

Awards

Report parameters

3.1 – 8

Reporting period

3.9

Data measurement techniques and assumptions

3.10 – 1

Explanation of restatements

3.12

3.13

GRI index

Policy and practice on external assurance

Governance, commitments and engagement

4.1 – 4

Governance structure

4.5

4.6

4.7

4.8

4.9

Link between compensation and performance

Process for avoiding conflict of interest

Expertise of board

Policies on economic, environmental and social 
performance

Procedures for board oversight of economic, 
environmental and social performance

4.10

Board performance

4.14 – 15

Stakeholder groups

4.16

Approach to stakeholder engagement

Economic 

Economic performance 

Page 

20

5 – 13; 146 – 147

91 – 92

2 – 3

86; 133

133

2 – 3

2; 132

flap; 94 – 128

116

100

110 – 113

95

100 – 106

102

66 – 73; 147

40

EC1

Economic value generated and distributed (revenues, operating 
costs, employee compensation, donations and other community 
investments, retained earnings and payments to capital providers 
and governments).(Core)

EC3 

Coverage of defined benefit plan obligations. (Core) 

4 – 5; 37; 74 – 83;  
130 – 144

Refer to Naspers’s annual 
financial statements, 
page 70 on  
www.naspers.com

EC4 

Significant financial assistance received from government. (Core) 

None

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AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

GRI G3 indicators (continued)

GRI 

Topic

Market presence

EC6 

Policy, practices and proportion of spending on locally-based 
suppliers at significant operations. (Core) 

Page 

Most of our procurement 
is from local sources 
except for some 
international programming 
and sporting rights, 
satellite leases and 
printing equipment

Indirect economic impacts

EC8 

Development and impact of infrastructure investments and 
services provided primarily for public benefit through 
commercial, in-kind or pro bono engagement. (Core) 

Educational development, 
Let’s Play initiative 

Environmental

Materials

Management approach

EN2 

Energy

Percentage of materials used that are recycled input materials. 
(Core) 

Management approach

EN4 

EN5 

EN6 

EN7 

Indirect energy consumption by primary source. (Core) 

Energy saved due to conservation and efficiency improvements. 
(Additional) 

Initiatives to provide energy-efficient or renewable energy-based 
products and services, and reductions in energy requirements 
as a result of these initiatives. (Additional) 

Initiatives to reduce indirect energy consumption and reductions 
achieved. (Additional) 

Biodiversity

EN11 

Location and size of land owned, leased, managed in or 
adjacent to protected areas and areas of high biodiversity value 
outside protected areas. (Core) 

EN12 

Description of significant impacts of activities, products, and 
services on biodiversity in protected areas and areas of high 
biodiversity value outside protected areas. (Core) 

Emissions, effluents and waste

EN16 

EN17 

EN18 

Total direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions by weight. 
(Core) 

Other relevant indirect greenhouse gas emissions by weight. 
(Core) 

Initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reductions 
achieved. (Additional) 

158

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89

87

87

88 – 89

88

None

None

87

87

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INFORMATION

GRI G3 indicators (continued)

GRI 

Topic

Emissions, effluents and waste (continued)

EN23 

EN24 

EN25 

Total number and volume of significant spills. (Core) 

Weight of transported, imported, exported or treated waste 
deemed hazardous under terms of Basel I, II, III, and VIII and 
percentage of transported waste shipped internationally. 
(Additional) 

Identity, size, protected status and biodiversity value of water 
bodies and related habitats significantly affected by discharges 
of water and runoff. (Additional) 

Products and services

EN26 

Initiatives to mitigate environmental impacts of products and 
services, and extent of impact mitigation. 

Compliance

EN28 

Transport

EN29 

Monetary value of significant fines and total number of 
non-monetary sanctions for non-compliance with environmental 
laws and regulations. (Core) 

Significant environmental impacts of transporting products and 
other goods and materials used for operations and transporting 
members of the workforce. (Additional)

Social performance: Labour practices and decent work

Employment

LA1 

LA3 

Total workforce by employment type, contract and region. (Core) 

Benefits for full-time employees not provided to temporary/
part-time employees, by major operations. 

Occupational health and safety

LA7 

LA8 

Rates of injury, occupational diseases, lost days and 
absenteeism, and number of work-related fatalities by region. 
(Core) 

Education, training, counselling, prevention and risk-control 
programmes to assist workforce members, their families or 
community members with serious diseases. (Core) 

Child labour

HR6 

Operations identified as having significant risk for incidents of 
child labour, and measures taken to contribute to elimination of 
child labour. (Core) 

Forced and compulsory labour

HR7 

Operations identified as having significant risk for incidents of 
forced or compulsory labour, and measures to contribute to the 
elimination of forced or compulsory labour. (Core) 

Page 

None

None

None

89

None

None

69

70

84

83 – 85

70

None

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STATEMENTS

SHAREHOLDER 
AND CORPORATE 
INFORMATION

GRI G3 indicators (continued)

GRI 

Topic

Indigenous rights

HR9 

Total number of incidents of violations involving rights of 
indigenous people and actions taken. (Additional) 

Social performance: Society

Page 

None

Corruption

SO2 

Percentage and number of business units analysed for risks 
related to corruption. (Core) 

2; 80% of revenue

SO4 

Actions taken in response to incidents of corruption. (Core) 

No significant incidents

Compliance

SO8 

Monetary value of significant fines and total number of 
non-monetary sanctions for non-compliance with laws and 
regulations. (Core) 

91

Social performance: Product responsibility

Customer health and safety

PR1 

PR2 

Lifecycle stages where health and safety impacts are assessed 
for improvement, and percentage of significant products and 
services categories subject to such procedures. (Core) 

No significant impact 
through products

Total number of incidents of non-compliance with regulations 
and voluntary codes on health and safety impacts of products 
and services during their lifecycle, by type of outcomes. 
(Additional) 

None

Products and service labelling

Type of product and service information required by procedures, 
and percentage of significant products and services subject to 
such information requirements. (Core) 

Some requirements on 
programming on DStv 
channels

PR3 

PR4 

Total number of incidents of non-compliance with regulations 
and voluntary codes concerning product and service information 
and labelling, by type of outcomes. (Additional) 

Marketing communications

Customer privacy

PR8 

Total number of substantiated complaints regarding breaches of 
customer privacy and losses of customer data. (Additional) 

Compliance

PR9 

Monetary value of significant fines for non-compliance with laws 
and regulations on the provision and use of products and 
services. (Core). 

160

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91

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SHAREHOLDER 
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INFORMATION

Form of proxy
Incorporated in the Republic of South Africa
JSE code: NPN ISIN: ZAE000015889 
LSE code: NPSN

  Registration number: 1925/001431/06

NINETY-SEVENTH ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

For use by holders of certificated shares or “own name” dematerialised shareholders at the ninety-seventh 
annual general meeting of shareholders of the company to be held on the 18th floor of the Naspers Centre, 
40 Heerengracht in Cape Town, South Africa on Friday, 26 August 2011 at 11:15.

I/We  ____________________________________________________________________________ (please print)

of   _________________________________________________________________________________________

being a holder of ___________________________________________________________  certificated shares of

“own name” dematerialised shares of Naspers and entitled to _____________________votes hereby appoint,  
(see note 1)

1.  ___________________________________________________________________________or, failing him/her,

2.   ___________________________________________________________________________or, failing him/her,
3.   the chairman of the annual general meeting as my/our proxy to act for me/us at the annual general 
meeting, which will be held in the boardroom on the 18th floor, Naspers Centre, 40 Heerengracht in 
Cape Town on Friday, 26 August 2011 at 11:15 for the purpose of considering and, if deemed fit, 
passing, with or without modification, the resolutions to be proposed thereat and at each adjournment or 
postponement thereof, and to vote for or against the resolutions and/or abstain from voting in respect of 
the shares in the issued share capital of the company registered in my/our name/names (see note 2) as 
follows:

In favour of

Against

Abstain

Ordinary resolutions

1. 

Approval of annual financial statements

2.  Confirmation and approval of payment of dividends

3. 

 Reappointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers Inc. as 
auditor

4. 

To elect the following directors: 

4.1  Adv F-A du Plessis

4.2  Prof G J Gerwel

4.3  Mr T M F Phaswana

4.4  Mr B J van der Ross

4.5  Mr J J M van Zyl

5. 

 Appointment of the following audit committee 
members:

5.1  Adv F-A du Plessis

5.2  Prof R C C Jafta

5.3  Mr B J van der Ross

5.4  Mr J J M van Zyl

6. 

To endorse the company’s remuneration policy

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In favour of

Against

Abstain

Form of proxy (continued)

7. 

8. 

9. 

 Approval of general authority placing unissued shares 
under the control of the directors

Approval of issue of shares for cash

 Approval of amendments to the trust deed of the 
Naspers Share Incentive Scheme

10. 

 Authorisation to implement all resolutions adopted at 
annual general meeting

Special resolution number one

Approval of the remuneration of the non-executive 
directors:

Proposed 31 March 2011

1.11   Naspers representatives on Media24 safety, health 

and environmental committee

1.12   Trustees of group share schemes/other personnel 

funds

1.13  Chair of Media24 pension fund

1.14  Trustees of Media24 pension fund

Proposed 31 March 2012 

1.1  Board – chair 

1.2  Board – member

1.3  Audit committee – chair

1.4  Audit committee – member

1.5  Risk committee – chair

1.6  Risk committee – member

1.7  Human resources  committee – chair

1.8  Human resources committee – member

1.9  Nomination committee – chair

1.10  Nomination committee – member

1.11   Naspers representatives on the Media24 safety,  

health and environmental committee

1.12   Trustees of group share schemes/other personnel 

funds

1.13  Chair of Media24 pension fund

1.14  Trustees of Media24 pension fund

Proposed 31 March 2013

1.1  Board – chair 

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In favour of

Against

Abstain

Form of proxy (continued)

1.2  Board – member

1.3  Audit committee – chair

1.4  Audit committee – member

1.5  Risk committee – chair

1.6  Risk committee – member

1.7  Human resources committee – chair

1.8  Human resources committee – member

1.9  Nomination committee – chair

1.10  Nomination committee – member

1.11   Naspers representatives on the Media24 safety,  

health and environmental committee

1.12   Trustees of group share schemes/other personnel 

funds

1.13  Chair of Media24 pension fund

1.14  Trustees of Media24 pension fund

Special resolution number two

Approve generally the provision of financial assistance

Special resolution number three

General authority for the company or its subsidiaries to 
acquire N ordinary shares in the company

Special resolution number four

General authority for the company or its subsidiaries to 
acquire A ordinary shares in the company

Special resolution number five

Approval of issue of shares, options and rights to Naspers 
share-based incentive schemes and participants

and generally to act as my/our proxy at the said annual general meeting (tick whichever is applicable. If no 
indication is given, the proxy holder will be entitled to vote or to abstain from voting as the proxy holder 
deems fit).

Signed at 

Signature  

 on this 

 day of  

 2011.

Assisted (where applicable)

Each shareholder is entitled to appoint one or more proxies (who need not be a shareholder(s) of the 
company) to attend, speak and vote in place of that shareholder at the annual general meeting.

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INFORMATION

Notes to form of proxy

1.  The following provisions shall apply in relation to proxies:

4. 

1.1 

1.2 

1.3 

1.4 

1.5 

1.6 

1.7 

2. 

3. 

 a shareholder of the company may appoint any 
individual (including an individual who is not a 
shareholder of the company) as a proxy to participate 
in, and speak and vote at, the annual general meeting 
of the company

 a shareholder may appoint two or more persons 
concurrently as proxies and may appoint more than 
one proxy to exercise voting rights attached to different 
securities held by the shareholder

 a proxy instrument must be in writing, dated and 
signed by the shareholder

 a proxy may delegate the proxy’s authority to act on 
behalf of the shareholder to another person subject to 
any restrictions set out in the instrument appointing the 
proxy

 a copy of the instrument appointing a proxy must be 
delivered to the company, or to any other person on 
behalf of the company, before the proxy exercises any 
rights of the shareholder at the annual general meeting 

 irrespective of the form of instrument used to appoint 
the proxy (i) the appointment is suspended at any time 
and to the extent that the shareholder chooses to act 
directly and in person in the exercise of any rights as a 
shareholder (ii) the appointment is revocable unless the 
proxy appointment expressly states otherwise and (iii) if 
the appointment is revocable, a shareholder may 
revoke the proxy appointment by cancelling it in writing 
or making a later inconsistent appointment of a proxy 
and delivering a copy of the revocation instrument to 
the proxy and the company, and

 the proxy is entitled to exercise, or abstain from 
exercising, any voting right of the shareholder without 
direction except to the extent that the Memorandum of 
Incorporation of the company, or the instrument 
appointing the proxy provides otherwise. 

 A certificated or “own name” dematerialised 
shareholder may insert the names of two alternative 
proxies of the shareholder’s choice in the space 
provided, with or without deleting “the chairman of the 
annual general meeting”. The person whose name 
appears first on the form of proxy and whose name has 
not been deleted and who attends the meeting will be 
entitled and authorised to act as proxy to the exclusion 
of those whose names follow.

 A shareholder’s instructions to the proxy must be 
indicated by the insertion of the relevant number of 
votes exercisable by that shareholder in the appropriate 
space provided. Failure to comply herewith will be 
deemed to authorise the proxy to vote at the annual 
general meeting as he/she deems fit in respect of the 
shareholder’s votes exercisable at that meeting, but 
where the proxy is the chairman, failure to so comply 
will be deemed to authorise the chairman to vote in 
favour of the resolutions. A shareholder or his/her proxy 
is not obliged to use all the votes exercisable by the 
shareholder or by the proxy.

5. 

6. 

 Forms of proxy must be lodged at or posted to the 
transfer secretaries of the company, Link Market 
Services South Africa (Proprietary) Limited, 13th floor 
– Rennie House, 19 Ameshoff Street, Braamfontein, 
2001 or PO Box 4844, Johannesburg, 2000 to be 
received by not later than 11:15 on Thursday, 
25 August 2011, or such later date if the annual 
general meeting is postponed.

 The completion and lodging of this form of proxy will 
not preclude the certificated shareholder or “own 
name” dematerialised shareholder from attending the 
annual general meeting and speaking and voting in 
person at the meeting to the exclusion of any proxy 
appointed in terms hereof.

 An instrument of proxy shall be valid for any 
adjournment or postponement of the annual general 
meeting as well as for the meeting to which it relates, 
unless the contrary is stated therein but shall not be 
used at the resumption of an adjourned annual 
general meeting if it could not have been used at the 
annual general meeting from which it was adjourned 
for any reason other than that it was not lodged 
timeously for the meeting from which the adjournment 
took place.

7. 

 A vote cast or act done in accordance with the terms 
of a form of proxy shall be deemed to be valid 
despite:

(cid:96)   the death, insanity, or any other legal disability of the 

person appointing the proxy, or

(cid:96)   the revocation of the proxy, or

(cid:96)   the transfer of a share in respect of which the proxy 

was given, unless notice as to any of the 
abovementioned matters shall have been received 
by the company at its registered office or by the 
chairman of the annual general meeting at the place 
of the annual general meeting if not held at the 
registered office, before the commencement or 
resumption (if adjourned) of the annual general 
meeting at which the vote was cast or the act was 
done or before the poll on which the vote was cast.

8. 

 The authority of a person signing the form of proxy:

8.1 under a power of attorney, or

8.2  on behalf of a company or close corporation or 
trust, must be attached to the form of proxy 
unless the full power of attorney has already been 
received by the company or the transfer 
secretaries.

9. 

 Where shares are held jointly, all joint holders must 
sign.

10. 

 Dematerialised shareholders, other than by “own 
name” registration, must NOT complete this form of 
proxy and must provide their central securities 
depository participant (CSDP) or broker of their voting 
instructions in terms of the custody agreement 
entered into between such shareholders and their 
CSDP and/or broker.

NASPERS INTEGRATED ANNUAL REPORT 2011

164

 
 
 
 
 
All sports pictures courtesy of ©Gallo Images 

Dora the Explorer courtesy of ©Nickelodeon

In The Night Garden courtesy of ©Ragdoll Limited

This report is printed on Triple Green, a paper made from sustainable forests and manufactured from chlorine-free pulp.

BASTION GRAPHICS

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