Johannesburg, Tuesday, 31 March – A new chapter unfolds on the SABC News Channel. From 1 April 2026, viewers can expect a refreshed, high-energy line-up that signals a clear shift in both form and focus built around strong, credible anchors and a renewed commitment to quality journalism.
At the heart of the change is a deliberate investment in trusted, experienced voices and compelling on-air talent. This year’s editorial focus also aligns with major national and global moments. The channel will place a sharper spotlight on legal and constitutional issues, as the Ad Hoc Committee processes and the Madlanga Commission reach their final stages. Through expert analysis and deeper reporting, viewers will gain clearer insight into the legal debates shaping the country and the world.
In May the new legal programme Case in Point will unpack the legal complexities dominating national discourse from high-profile trials and cold cases to commissions of inquiry with clarity and purpose.
Our news day now begins earlier and stronger. Sakina Kamwendo and Leanne Manas take the reins of Morning Live from 05h30, setting the tone for the day with authority, experience, and a sharp editorial edge.
Mid-mornings evolve into a more expansive and engaging space with The Agenda (09h00 – 14h00), where Ayanda Nyathi and Mfundo Mabalane bring depth, pace, and explainers to the stories shaping the day.
Business coverage also receives a sharper identity. OnPoint makes way for The Business Agenda, a power hour of markets, money, and company results anchored by Mpho Kubayi from 13h00 to 14h00 a clear signal that economic storytelling is taking centre stage.
Afternoons are reimagined with SA Today moving earlier to 14h00 – 17h00, led by the dynamic pairing of Unathi Batyashe and Thembekile Mrototo, bringing a balance of breaking news and stories unfolding across the country and the globe.
Prime time sees a bold injection of new energy as Thulasizwe Simelane joins Bongiwe Zwane on Full View (17h00 – 21h00). The dynamic duo anchors the channel’s evening slot with authority, insight, and presence.
The Late Edition, anchored by Oliver Dickson, closes the news day through to 23h00 midweek, guiding viewers through the final developments of the day with clarity and perspective. On weekends, the show takes a youthful and engaging approach with Mxolisi Masango and Lopang Alamu, bringing a fresh voice to late-night news.
With 2026 marking a major year in global sport, the channel has also strengthened its sports coverage. Dedicated sports anchors will feature across each news bloc, including weekends, delivering in-depth reporting, sport documentaries, feature stories, and the top headlines from the world of sport as the build-up to the FIFA World Cup gathers momentum.
Weekends are equally strengthened, with Thabiso Kotane bringing his probing style to The Week In Review and The Week Ahead, ensuring audiences remain informed, reflective, and prepared for the stories shaping the days ahead.
Lifestyle and culture continue to have a vibrant place on the channel. Trendz Live moves to Saturdays at 20h00, while UnWrap Africa returns with renewed focus, celebrating the stories, rhythms, and realities of the continent.
This is more than a schedule change. It is a strategic reset that places quality, wider-footprint storytelling, and meaningful audience connection at the centre of the SABC News Channel’s evolution.
As the media landscape continues to shift and audiences demand greater immediacy, depth, and authenticity, the SABC News Channel is responding with clarity, confidence, and renewed purpose.
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Issued By: Group Communications
Media Enquiries: Mmoni Ngubane (Head of Communications)
NgubaneMV@sabc.co.za T. 011 714 3057| C. 073 688 1590
