Johannesburg – Friday, 29 September 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation’s (SABC) 2022/23 Annual Report was tabled in Parliament today. Throughout the 2022/23 financial year, the SABC continued to deliver on its mandate to educate, inform and entertain, as well as consistently impact and improve the lives of South Africans. Despite the challenges with the funding model and external and internal factors that negatively impacted the financial results, it is encouraging that during this period, SABC video entertainment programmes formed part of the top 20 most watched programmes and SABC radio stations retained dominance with over 26 million listeners weekly according to the Broadcast Research Council (BRC).

In addition, amongst its key highlights the Corporation launched its first streaming App, SABC Plus, which signals a new digital era for the organisation and a key accomplishment in further addressing universal access for South Africans. During the year under review, the SABC also brought back a flagship property, the METRO FM Music Awards after a brief hiatus hosted in partnership with Mpumalanga Province.

After seven (7) years of consistently improving net losses, the year under review unfortunately saw a significant regression. This is as a result of revenue that was 7.9% less than 2021/22 financial year and 27% less than budget. The SABC made a net loss of R1.13b. This translates to a R949m more than the previous financial year. The cash reserves consequently decreased by R709m (60%) as compared to the R300m recorded in the previous year.

The significant under performance of revenue can be attributed to a variety of internal and external factors including but not limited to the growth in audience ratings that did not meet expectations, the impact of analogue switch off and loadshedding, the inability to successfully monetise sport properties and other content and the increasing TV License evasion rate. In parallel the unfunded cost of public service mandate, which was R817m in 2022/23 financial year and Government funding that comprises only approximately 3% of revenue streams also negatively impacted the financial results.

While in its final year of implementation the SABC could report that nearly all the activities committed to in the Turnaround Strategy were implemented, the inability of the activities associated with revenue improvement and legislation to translate into improved financial results was a major setback.

This delayed the growth phase the Corporation was aspiring to achieve at this time. The utilisation of the bailout funding continued to be rigidly managed within the set allocation criteria for content and capex investments.

Due to the significant revenue gap that resulted in the increased net loss and the delayed financial benefit realisation of the Turnaround Strategy, the Auditor General of South Africa concluded that material uncertainty of the SABC’s ability to maintain its Going Concern status exists and is so pervasive that a Disclaimer Opinion was issued. This is despite a 70% reduction in Audit findings over a 5-year period with significant improvement in financial controls. There are no audit qualifications remaining in 2022/23 financial year related to the preparation of and fair presentation of the financial statements and the internal control environment.

With the onboarding of the new Board, after the Corporation was without a Board for six (6) months, the Board has prioritised the stabilisation of revenue generation and various interventions that have or are being implemented. While these are gaining traction the Corporation continues to manage its available resources conservatively to meet its financial obligations and continues to deliver on its public service mandate.

With the imminent positive developments in the legislative environment, the SABC is confident of turning the corner towards financial sustainability and growth. The SABC is also excited about the opportunities SABC Plus holds, early successes with new content are yielding results and planning for the 2024 National Elections are on track. As such the Corporation is committed to intensifying its efforts in the execution of its mandate.

Ends

Issued By:                             Group Communications

Media Enquiries:                   Ms. Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Johannesburg – Friday, 22 September 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is thrilled to announce the renewal of its 404 News channel available on DSTV, cementing an exclusive content carriage agreement that promises to keep redefining the broadcasting landscape. 

For our audience without access to pay TV, SABC will offer a multi-lingual 24-hour news channel (SABC Lehae) available on DTT and DTH. The channel’s value proposition will be extended with an addition of the English language to make the product diverse and appealing to reflect South African demographics.

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Johannesburg – Wednesday, 20 September 2023 – South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has made an offer to MultiChoice (DSTV) for the sub-licensing for the Cricket World Cup 2023 and awaits their response. 

This move seeks to enhance access to premier cricket content for the masses and reaffirms the commitment to providing the best in sports entertainment to citizens, regardless of their geographic location or economic status.

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Polokwane – Tuesday 19 September 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation’s Limpopo based radio station Thobela FM, introduced an exciting collaboration with Bomma sneakers to launch limited edition Thobela Bomma sneaker inspired by Thobela FM branding.

The collaboration with Bomma grants an opportunity for Thobela brand to reach target audiences and an opportunity to tap into new markets and strengthen a connection to the local culture and identity.

The collaboration between Thobela FM and Bomma Sneakers will result in mutually beneficial outcomes like brand exposure, target marketing, cross promotion, brand extension cultural connection with listeners at large. The partnership is also part of our strategy of embracing public private partnerships for growth of local business. Through this partnership Thobela FM will be able to produce over 1500 sneakers for this year most of which will sound on the ground at the Thobela FM Gospel festival.

Since the unveil of the sneaker design on Saturday (9 September 2023), the station has sold several sneakers already and has seen over 700K post impressions across its social media platforms and a reach of 564 054 just on the day of the launch, which is a clear indication of the love and appreciation of the brand and partnership.

We are proud as Thobela FM to launch a sneaker that resonates with our listeners. We saw it befitting to adopt the #ThobelaBomma in honour of women for the role they play in our society. We have over the past years seen growth of the youth and female audience and having a product that speaks to the two brands will position the station across the broadcast and lifestyle markets. – says Madikana Matjila (Limpopo Combo Business Manager).

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Johannesburg – Friday, 15 September 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is proud to be nominated in various categories at the 19^th Annual Sunday Times GenNext Survey, through its radio and television platforms, as well as personalities who work for the public broadcaster.

The SABC has been acknowledged in the following categories:

• Coolest Company to work for 2023 – SABC.
• Coolest Kids TV Channels 2023 – SABC 1.
• Coolest Radio Stations 2023 – Motsweding FM, Radio 2000, Thobela FM, Lesedi FM, 5fm, Good Hope FM and METRO FM.
• Coolest Local TV Programmes/Series 2023 – Skeem Saam and Uzalo.
• Coolest Local Radio Personalities 2023 – Lerato Kganyago / LKG (METRO FM), Selbeyonce/Selby Mkhize (Ukhozi FM), Somizi Mhlongo (METRO FM) and Thuso Motaung (Lesedi FM).

The SABC wishes its radio personalities, programmes and platforms the best and looks forward to the announcement of winners on 24 September 2023.

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Gqeberha – Wednesday, 13 September 2023 – Umhlobo Wenene FM, South Africa’s IsiXhosa-language radio station, is excited to introduce an immersive heritage initiative titled “Khenketha NoMhlobo Cultural and Heritage Experience”. This groundbreaking program will see the nation’s longest-standing breakfast show, i-Brakfesi Eyondlayo Ekuseni (BEE), which has been broadcasting since 2009, embark on a cultural exchange journey to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe from 18 – 21 September 2023. The program’s primary objective is to foster stronger connections among IsiXhosa speakers in South Africa and Zimbabwe while celebrating their shared cultural heritage.

The year 2023 marks a significant milestone for amaXhosa – 200 years of celebrating the written form of isiXhosa, a language, according to PANSALB, spoken by nearly 8,154,258 people in South Africa, with over 4 million choosing Umhlobo Wenene FM as their station of choice. To commemorate this historic occasion, Umhlobo Wenene FM will embark on a symbolic trip to Zimbabwe, one of South Africa’s neighbouring countries. In partnership with VIB Mobile, a vendor for Mobile Network Operators in Southern African countries, Umhlobo Wenene FM will organise a series of interactive events and discussions centered around the IsiXhosa language, music, traditions, and customs. This heritage experience presents an invaluable opportunity for Umhlobo Wenene FM to connect with their Xhosa counterparts in Bulawayo and engage in a meaningful exchange of ideas, stories, and experiences.

To mark this momentous occasion and celebrate 14 years of hosting the longest-standing breakfast show, Umhlobo Wenene FM is thrilled to offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for one fortunate listener and their partner to accompany the station’s personalities on this extraordinary journey. The selected winner will have the privilege of participating in the cultural exchange program, engaging in various tourism activities, and immersing themselves in the vibrant IsiXhosa-speaking community in Bulawayo. The “Khenketha NoMhlobo Cultural and Heritage Experience” will feature educational segments delving into the history, customs, and traditions of the tribe, offering valuable insights and knowledge to both tribal members and the public. This content will be disseminated through the station’s digital platforms to preserve and share isiXhosa’s rich cultural heritage.

Mr. Loyiso Bala, Business Manager for Umhlobo Wenene FM, expressed his excitement about the initiative, saying, “We are thrilled to embark on this cultural and heritage journey during the month of September, which coincides with Heritage and Tourism Month in South Africa as well as World Tourism Day. Heritage Month acknowledges various aspects of South African culture, including our historical heritage, language, cuisine, and music, while Tourism Month highlights South Africa’s diverse tourism offerings and World Tourism Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its impact on our society. Our three-pronged approach to this year’s national and global commemorations transcends geographical boundaries and unites IsiXhosa speakers. This initiative is a testament to the power of language and culture in bringing communities together.”

The Group CEO of VIB Mobile, Leroy Monaheng added that “VIB Mobile is eagerly anticipating a successful and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impact on the participating presenters and staff at Umhlobo Wenene FM, the fortunate contest winner, and the broader IsiXhosa-speaking community.”

**About Umhlobo Wenene FM**

Umhlobo Wenene FM is a leading IsiXhosa-language radio station based in Eastern Cape, South Africa, with a rich history spanning over 60 decades. It is the only station in South Africa with an audience footprint in 7 of the 9 provinces. It boasts just over 4 million listeners. With a focus on promoting local culture, heritage, language, and music, the station serves as a vibrant platform for engaging with the IsiXhosa-speaking community and fostering a sense of friendship as represented in their tagline – ‘Unomhlobo Mhlobo’.

**Note to Editors**

For high-resolution images and additional information about the Umhlobo Wenene FM cultural exchange program, please visit www.umhlobowenenefm.co.za or contact the media contact listed above.

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Durban, Tuesday, 12 September 2023 – Ukhozi FM, South Africa’s leading radio station, which is part of the SABC’s radio portfolio, is thrilled to announce Nozipho Zulu from KwaZulu-Natal as the winner of the highly anticipated Winnie Mahlangu Female Presenter Search for 2023. Nozipho Zulu emerged victorious after an intense competition that saw 2000 talented individuals from across the nation submit their demos in the hopes of becoming the next radio sensation. Launched in 2020, this year’s competition continued the station’s commitment to empowering women in media, through encouraging aspiring female presenters to showcase their skills and unique voices.

The Winnie Mahlangu Female Presenter Search, a tribute to the late legendary broadcaster Winnie Mahlangu, was a nationwide quest to discover the next female radio star. With an overwhelming response from hopefuls across the country, this competition once again aimed to unearth fresh talent in the radio industry.

The four-week voting phase, where listeners across the nation had the opportunity to vote for their favorite presenter candidate, combined with a comprehensive interview process with Ukhozi FM management, ensured that the most deserving candidate would be chosen to follow in the footsteps of previous winners.

Nozipho Zulu, now joins an illustrious list of talented broadcasters who have claimed the title in previous years. Zama Mseleku in 2020, Bingelela Mpanza in 2021, and Londa Mbatha in 2022 have all made significant contributions to Ukhozi FM and the broadcasting industry as a whole.

Nozipho Zulu, a dynamic and charismatic presenter, captivated the hearts of the audience with her magnetic personality and undeniable on-air presence. Her ability to connect with listeners and deliver compelling content set her apart as the standout choice for the coveted position.

Nozipho upon winning the competition said, “This journey has been nothing short of incredible. I’m honored to follow in the footsteps of such a radio icon as Winnie Mahlangu and look forward to bringing fresh energy and exciting content to Ukhozi FM’s loyal listeners.”

Pearl Maseko, Programmes Manager for Ukhozi FM commented, “We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our listeners and supporters who participated in the voting process. Your engagement and enthusiasm have been instrumental in making this search a resounding success.”

As part of her prize, Zulu will embark on a 12-month mentorship journey with Ukhozi FM. This invaluable opportunity will provide her with guidance and support from seasoned professionals, ensuring her growth and success in the world of radio broadcasting.

Ukhozi FM would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations to Nozipho Zulu and express gratitude to all the talented individuals who participated in this year’s search. The station looks forward to seeing Nozipho flourish and make her mark as the newest addition to the Ukhozi FM family.

Ends

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Johannesburg-Thursday, 7 September 2023 – The SABC can confirm that the Corporation has in principle concluded an agreement with MultiChoice to broadcast all the Springbok games. A total of 16 games will be broadcasted on the SABC channels. This agreement will unfortunately exclude OVHD (eMedia) platform because of the restrictive conditions that MultiChoice is placing on the sub-licensing agreement for the Free-to-Air rights for the RWC 2023. This condition cuts off approximately 3.2 million South African households.

The SABC regrets this irrational decision by MultiChoice, especially in light of Minister Zizi Kodwa’s emphasis that “rugby plays a critical role in nation building and social cohesion”. The SABC hopes that in the interest of nation building and social cohesion, MultiChoice will remove this restrictive condition to enable all South Africans to get behind the Boks.

The SABC would like to thank its broadcast partners, Hollywoodbets and South African Breweries with the Castle Lager Brand who enabled the public broadcaster to secure these important rights.

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Johannesburg – Thursday, 7 September 2023 – The SABC can confirm that the Corporation has been in constant engagements with Multichoice and has met all their requirements to conclude the agreement regarding the Rugby World Cup 2023. At this stage, the SABC is awaiting feedback from Multichoice.

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Johannesburg- Friday, 1 September 2023- In its quest to promote culture, heritage, language and social cohesion through music, the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) radio station, Munghana Lonene FM launched its 18^th edition of the Xitsonga Music Awards (XMA) today in Auckland Park. XMA is a flagship annual project presented by Munghana Lonene FM.

This year’s edition of the awards will be held on 4 November 2023 at the Nkowankowa Stadium and is themed: I Mpfumaluwo wa Hina which simply means – It’s our melody! The theme is a celebration of the world’s recovery from an era of a pandemic and affirms that music is a universal gift and has the power to connect people.

Subsequent to the media launch held in Auckland park today, which unveiled the unique features of this year’s awards, the station will announce nominees and open voting lines at a date that will be communicated soon.

The awards weekend will start with an elegant gala dinner where special awards are presented. The gala presents a networking opportunity for key VIP stakeholders, government officials as well as business, traditional and religious leaders.

This will be followed by a memorable and prestigious open-air awarding ceremony and a music festival that will facilitate interaction between artists and loyal fans of no less than 15 000 people.

The event presents multiple opportunities to build brand affinity through experiential marketing opportunities, brand association drives and goodwill initiatives.

South Africans are urged to be part of the stations’ strides as it continues to ensure that music remains a powerful instrument that helps to deepen South Africa’s democracy.

Ends

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs & Marketing)

Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590