Johannesburg – Thursday, 27 February 2025 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is proud to announce the nominees for the METRO FM Music Awards 2025. These nominations feature music singles and albums released between 28 February 2024 and 28 February 2025.

This year, the station received an impressive 2,769 entries across 19 categories, a significant increase from last year’s 1,700 entries.

Amapiano continues to lead the pack, with genre kings Kabza De Small, DJ Maphorisa, and ScottsMaphuma topping the list with four (4) nominations each. iNkabi Nation’s Sjava follows closely with three (3) nominations, while Hip hop royalty,  Kwesta and Cassper Nyovest also secured three (3) nominations each.

METRO FM also unveiled the much-awaited theme for this year’s ceremony. This year’s theme is “Crowning Greatness”. “Crowning Greatness”, elevates the achievements of those who shape the South African cultural narrative. It is a celebration of Black Royalty – a night where hits are not only celebrated but become timeless pieces of our shared legacy. Honouring the fact that the evening is more than an award show; it’s a coronation, where artists are crowned as cultural icons, and their contributions are immortalized.

The METRO FM Music Awards 2025 will take place on Saturday, 03 May 2025 at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga and will be broadcast live on SABC1.

The METRO FM Music Awards 2025 is proudly hosted by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government and sponsored by the Motsepe Foundation.

In an effort to add more value to the awards, the Motsepe Foundation will be providing a cash prize of R50,000 to each category winner, and a grand prize of R150,000 to the Song of the Year winner.

The Motsepe Foundation is sponsoring the Song of the Year and the Lifetime Achievement award and African Fashion International (AFI) is supporting the Best Styled category. Santam, remains a proud supporter of the Best Artist category.  Additionally, METRO FM is pleased to announce SAMPRA, as the sponsor of the prestigious Artist of the year.

Below is the full list of Nominees:

Best Female Artist

Best RnB Song

Best Dance Song

Best Styled Artist

Best Kwaito/Gqom Song

Best Jazz Album

Best Music Video

Best Viral Challenge

Best Produced Album

Best New Artist

Best Collaboration Song

Artist of The Year

Song of the Year

Best Amapiano Song

Best Hip Hop Song

Best Duo/Group

Best African Pop Song

Best Gospel Album

Best Male Artist

ENDS

Issued By:                          Group Communications

Media Enquiries:                Mmoni Ngubane (Head of Communications)

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

Matla Ragoasha

Matla@maijawe.com  C. 084 604 5120

Gqeberha – Thursday, 27 February 2025 – Umhlobo Wenene FM is thrilled to announce the pilot event for 123Pholaz Unplugged on Tour, an exciting new format that takes the station’s beloved Unplugged sessions hosted by Amaza Ntshanga and Lusanda Mbane beyond the SABC building foyer and into unique venues across the country. The first instalment of this initiative will take place on Friday, 28 February 2025, at Capsicum Culinary Studio and the IIE School of Hospitality and Service Management (IIEHSM) in Rosebank.

As the station closes off Love Month in style, this exclusive event promises an afternoon of music, food, and immersive experiences, setting the stage for a potential monthly series launching in the new SABC fiscal year. This special edition of 123Pholaz Unplugged will feature:

• A live stream from 12:00 – 15:00 and a dynamic live broadcast (OB) from 13:00 – 15:00, with engaging interviews, interactive cooking sessions, and live entertainment.
• A curated culinary experience, led by professional chef, Andile Magwaza where guests will enjoy a live cooking session culminating in a delectable food-tasting segment on-air.
• Mocktail-making activities led by Simphiwe Dlamini and entertainment, featuring a special performance by the sensational Lwah Ndlunkulu and a feature with Donald and Mthandazo Gatya, who will be part of the interactive sessions.

To make this event even more memorable, Unplugged on Tour will provide a unique platform for brand collaboration and industry networking, immersing like-minded brands and partners in an engaging and experiential setting.

Loyiso Bala, Business Manager of Umhlobo Wenene FM, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating: “Unplugged on Tour is a bold step towards redefining how we engage with our audience and create experiences beyond the traditional studio space. Partnering with Capsicum Culinary Studio and the IIE School of Hospitality & Service Management allows us to blend the best of entertainment and hospitality, offering an immersive experience that speaks to our listeners and partners alike.”

The Head of Capsicum Culinary Studio and IIEHSM Rosebank Campus, Nicole De Jager, added: “We are delighted to partner with Umhlobo Wenene FM on this exciting initiative. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to provide experiential learning opportunities that connect students with industry leaders and real-world experiences. Hosting ‘Unplugged on Tour’ at our campus is a fantastic way to showcase the synergy between music, food, and hospitality.”

Umhlobo Wenene FM remains committed to elevating the live music and cultural experience for its audience, and Unplugged on Tour is the next step in this journey. Stay tuned for more updates as the station takes this unforgettable experience on the road!

 ABOUT UMHLOBO WENENE FM

Umhlobo Wenene FM is one of South Africa’s leading radio stations, renowned for its culturally vibrant content and commitment to promoting local talent, indigenous language and the spirit of friendship. Broadcasting in isiXhosa to over 4 million listeners nationwide, Umhlobo Wenene FM carries a legacy of connecting communities and enriching lives, while never leaving them behind. 123Pholaz is a vibrant, lifestyle, arts and entertainment midday show that airs Mondays to Friday between 13:00 and 15:00pm. It caters to both the young, progressive listener, and by virtue of its feature of the popular drama, “Ithini na Lento”, it also caters to the older, loyal and nostalgic listener. The show engages listeners through a mix of content including the live performances through the Unplugged Sessions which feature every Friday between 14:00 and 15:00pm.

 ABOUT CAPSICUM CULINARY STUDIO & IIE SCHOOL OF HOSPITALITY AND SERVICE MANAGEMENT

Capsicum Culinary Studio is South Africa’s leading culinary school, accredited by QCTO, CATHSSETA, City & Guilds (UK), SA Chefs, and WACS. As part of the ADvTECH Group, the school provides industry-focused, globally recognised training across seven campuses nationwide.

The IIE School of Hospitality & Service Management (IIEHSM) is a centre of excellence in both hospitality and service management education. They offer industry-aligned qualifications that combine practical expertise with strong commercial foundations, preparing graduates for successful careers in these dynamic sectors. Their qualifications are registered and accredited, ensuring students receive high-quality, career-ready education. Programmes are available in full-time contact learning and some via online/distance learning, providing flexibility to study in a way that suits individual needs through their two Johannesburg and Cape Town campuses.

 ENDS

Media Enquiries:

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Ngubane (Head of Communications)

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

Johannesburg – Thursday, 27 February 2025 – Football in South Africa is more than just a game – it is a cultural force that unites communities, fosters national pride, and influences generations. Recognizing this immense impact, Carling Black Label has joined forces with SABC Sport and the Premier Soccer League (PSL) to launch the Injury Time Activation, an initiative designed to challenge outdated perceptions of masculinity, promote responsible behavior, and drive action against gender-based violence (GBV).

Through this initiative, Carling Black Label and SABC Sport are ensuring that the impact of soccer extends beyond the field, influencing conversations and actions in homes, communities, and relationships. The campaign forms part of Carling Black Label’s ongoing #NoExcuse movement, which has been at the forefront of efforts to combat gender-based violence in South Africa. The Injury Time Activation is specifically designed to harness the high-stakes, emotionally charged moments of injury time in football matches to reinforce the importance of taking action in critical moments—both on and off the pitch.

The official launch event, held at SABC’s Auckland Park studios in Johannesburg yesterday, brought together some of the most influential figures in football, media, and social advocacy. With a live television audience, the platform ensured that the message resonated beyond the room and into the homes of millions of South Africans.

As South Africa’s largest sports broadcaster, SABC Sport plays a vital role in shaping societal narratives and reaching millions of viewers across the country.

Keletso Totlhanyo, Head of SABC Sport, emphasized the broadcaster’s responsibility in ensuring football is used as a tool for education, leadership, and advocacy.

She stated, “At SABC Sport, we recognize that football is more than just entertainment—it is an integral part of South African culture, with the power to instill values, shift behaviors, and inspire change. The Injury Time Activation is an innovative way to use high-stakes moments in football to drive home a message that extends far beyond the pitch. When the final minutes of a match demand full focus and determination, we remind men that the same level of urgency must be applied in life when taking action against gender-based violence. Through this partnership with Carling Black Label and the PSL, we are fostering an ongoing dialogue that calls for accountability, respect, and responsible conduct.”

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has long been committed to ensuring that football is a force for positive change, extending its influence beyond the field. The PSL Player Programme, launched as part of the Champions for Change initiative, equips footballers with leadership skills and a deep understanding of their role as public figures.

Mato Madlala, Acting CEO of the PSL, stressed the importance of instilling values that transcend football.

“Football is not just about scoring goals—it is about shaping individuals who inspire and lead. Players are more than athletes; they are mentors, brothers, and fathers in their communities. Through the PSL Player Programme, we are ensuring that every footballer understands the weight of their influence and uses it to challenge harmful norms, support victims of abuse, and redefine what it means to be a real champion. With the Injury Time Activation, we are reinforcing that taking action—whether in a match or in life—can never be left too late,” said Madlala.

The campaign has also received strong backing from some of South Africa’s most celebrated football figures, who recognize the responsibility they have in shaping the next generation of men.

Benni McCarthy, legendary Bafana Bafana striker and current coach, highlighted how football can instill discipline, accountability, and respect.

“Football teaches us discipline, teamwork, and how to handle pressure—but those lessons shouldn’t stop when we step off the pitch. Injury Time is one of the most intense moments in any game, but what matters is what you do with it. In life, just like in football, you can’t afford to wait until the last minute to take action. This campaign is about making sure men understand that gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue—it’s a men’s issue too. It’s time we step up and take responsibility,” said McCarthy.

Football sensation, Tshegofatso Mabasa echoed McCarthy’s words, recognizing that football players must also take ownership of their influence.

“As young footballers, we look up to legends like Benni McCarthy, but we also have a duty to be role models ourselves. We are the future of South African football, and we must set the right example. This campaign challenges us to be better men—not just on the field, but in our homes, our relationships, and in the way we treat people. Injury Time teaches us that every second matters, and in the fight against gender-based violence, there is no excuse for waiting to act,” said Mabasa.

Carling Black Label’s dedication to this cause extends far beyond Injury Time Activation. The brand has been a vocal advocate for responsible masculinity through its #NoExcuse campaign, which challenges men to step up, take accountability, and actively work to eliminate gender-based violence.

Kerryn Greenleaf, Carling Black Label Brand Manager, emphasized that this campaign is not just about awareness – it’s about sustained action.

“We cannot afford to address gender-based violence only in isolated moments—it has to be a 365-day commitment. Football provides a unique opportunity to reach men where they are most engaged, and the Injury Time Activation is a powerful way to reinforce this message when focus is at its peak. Every second counts, both in a match and in life, and there is no excuse for silence or inaction. We want men to understand that just like in football, real champions are those who step up when it matters most,” said Greenleaf.

Through Injury Time Activation, every PSL match becomes an opportunity to remind fans and players that gender-based violence prevention is not an occasional conversation—it is a year-round commitment. With every injury time moment, Carling Black Label, SABC Sport, and the PSL are sending a clear message: there is no extra time in this fight—action must be taken now.

With continued engagement, education, and mentorship, the #NoExcuse campaign is ensuring that football is used as a force for lasting change. Through partnerships with Father A Nation, Lifeline South Africa, and Cloud Therapist, men are being provided with resources, counseling, and mentorship to break harmful cycles and redefine what it means to be a responsible man.

As the PSL season progresses, the campaign will continue amplifying its message, ensuring that every match played contributes to a future where respect, responsibility, and accountability become the standard.

For more information on the campaign and how to get involved, visit NoExcuseSA.com and follow the conversation online using #NoExcuse and #InjuryTimeActivation

For media enquiries, please contact Bingi Mavi bingi@msportsmarketing.co.za or +27 73 667 7350 and Mmoni Ngubane (SABC Head of Communications) NgubaneMV@sabc.co.za T. 011 714 3057| C. 073 688 1590.

About SABC Sport

SABC Sport is South Africa’s largest sports broadcaster, reaching millions nationwide. It provides extensive coverage of local and international sports, with a strong focus on football, rugby, and cricket. Beyond entertainment, SABC Sport leverages its platform to drive social change, addressing issues like gender-based violence through campaigns such as the Carling Black Label Injury Time Activation. Committed to promoting positive change, SABC Sport uses sport’s unifying power to educate and engage communities, fostering a culture of responsibility and social impact across South Africa.

About Carling Black Label Carling 

Black Label is a distinguished beer brand celebrated for its superior quality and rich heritage. Brewed with precision and passion, it has earned numerous accolades, solidifying its status as a world-class beer. Carling Black Label embodies the spirit of champions, representing excellence and resilience. As a brand deeply rooted in South African culture, Carling Black Label resonates with consumers by embodying positive masculinity and fostering a sense of pride, resilience, and responsibility that defines true champions. 

About the Champions for Change Course 

The Champions for Change course, accessible at NoExcuseSA.com and in multiple local languages at https://academy.fatheranation.co.za, is a pivotal component of the #NoExcuse campaign, supported by a national footprint of mentors who facilitate workshops and events in communities in partnership with Father A Nation. The free program unpacks common misconceptions around abuse, educating men on its various forms and providing actionable steps they can take to make a difference in their communities.

About Father A Nation 

Father A Nation (FAN) is a non-profit organization in South Africa dedicated to restoring and empowering fathers, families, and communities. Their mission is to address social issues stemming from fatherlessness, such as poverty, crime, and gender-based violence. FAN promotes positive masculinity, fatherhood, and community engagement through workshops and training programs. By restoring fathers, FAN seeks to rebuild families and communities, creating a brighter future for South Africa. FAN’s initiatives focus on emotional healing, economic empowerment, and social transformation. https://fatheranation.co.za

Johannesburg – Wednesday, 26 February 2025 – On Monday, 24 February 2025, the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) hosted the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies (PCCDT) as part of its oversight visit. The engagement provided an opportunity for SABC to outline key strategic objectives and ongoing challenges affecting the public broadcaster’s long-term sustainability.

The central focus of the discussions was SABC’s ongoing strategic renewal (recovery), which is driven by its five-year corporate strategy to position the organisation as a financially stable, self-sufficient, and future-ready public broadcaster. Since its implementation in April 2024, this strategy has been geared towards strengthening the SABC’s commercial viability, shaping the regulatory environment, and accelerating its digital transformation in response to evolving audience and technological trends.

The SABC also reiterated its concerns regarding the urgent need to finalise key policy and legislative matters, particularly the SABC Bill and the review of the public broadcasting funding model. While the Corporation has actively contributed to policy development, including submissions on the SABC Bill, the delayed implementation of legislative reforms remains a critical risk to the SABC’s financial viability. The broadcaster urged policymakers to prioritise these matters to ensure a sustainable and modernised public broadcasting sector.

Regarding the Analogue Switch-Off (ASO), SABC reaffirmed its commitment to the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting and that it continues to support the government’s digital migration programme. However, it emphasised that the process must be managed in a way that does not marginalise audiences who still rely on analogue transmission. A poorly executed migration risks compromising the SABC’s revenue base and its ability to fulfil its public mandate of universal access.

Despite an increasingly challenging operating environment, SABC has made significant progress in stabilising its financial position, improving governance, and strengthening leadership. Notably, it has reduced financial losses, achieved an unqualified audit opinion, ensured uninterrupted broadcasting services, and successfully delivered on major national events, including the 2024 National General Elections.

SABC Board Chairperson, Khathutshelo Ramukumba, emphasised the importance of urgency in resolving these matters, stating:

“The SABC plays a vital role in informing, educating, and entertaining South Africans, yet it continues to operate under a funding model that is not fit for purpose in today’s media landscape. We appreciate the Portfolio Committee’s engagement and its recognition of the need for urgent policy reforms. The SABC remains committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure we build a resilient and financially stable public broadcaster that serves all South Africans.”

The SABC Board and management express their sincere appreciation to the Portfolio Committee for its constructive engagement and commitment to addressing key issues affecting the Corporation. The broadcaster remains hopeful that, through continued collaboration, decisive policy interventions will be expedited to secure the long-term sustainability of the public broadcaster.

Ends.

Issued By:                              Group Communications

Media Enquiries:                   Mmoni Ngubane (Head of Communications)

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

Johannesburg – Monday, 24 February 2025 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is proud to announce that its Group Chief Executive Officer, Nomsa Chabeli, has been appointed as a member of the Global Task Force (GTF) for Public Media. This prestigious international body brings together leaders of major public broadcasters to champion the values of public service media in an evolving global landscape.

Chabeli joins an esteemed group of media executives, including Anne Lagercrantz, the new CEO of Swedish Television (SVT), Marie-Philippe Bouchard, President and CEO of CBC/Radio-Canada, as well as leaders from the BBC, France Télévisions, ABC Australia, and RNZ (New Zealand).
Recognizing the critical role of public service broadcasting, Chabeli highlighted the challenges facing the industry, stating:
“Public service broadcasters are custodians of democracy, culture, and diversity, yet we face immense challenges. From combating misinformation to navigating technological disruption and staying relevant to increasingly fragmented audiences, our mission has never been more crucial.”

Norbert Himmler, Director-General of ZDF and Chair of the Global Task Force, welcomed Chabeli’s appointment, saying:
“We all feel the increasing pressure on public service media worldwide. I am therefore delighted that Nomsa is joining our international roundtable, where we will work together to promote and uphold the values of public service broadcasting worldwide.”

The Global Task Force for public media exists to defend and promote public media principles such as access, accuracy, accountability, creativity, impartiality, independence, and high journalistic standards, all of which are fundamental to a well-informed and democratic society.
Chabeli’s appointment underscores SABC’s growing influence on the global stage and reaffirms its commitment to serving the South African public with credible, independent, and high-quality content.

Ends.
Issued By: Group Communications
Media Enquiries: Mmoni Ngubane (Head of Communications)
NgubaneMV@sabc.co.za T. 011 714 3057| C. 073 688 1590

This latest partnership sees SABC Plus streaming a curated SuperSport Schools channel on their OTT platform.

JOHANNESBURG, 06 February 2025 – In a move set to positively influence the landscape of schools’ sport in South Africa, SuperSport Schools, the premier streaming and broadcast platform for schools and youth sport broadcasting, and SABC Sport, a division of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), are excited to announce yet another joint initiative in the growing partnerships between the public broadcaster and SuperSport.

The collaboration will see the launch of a fully curated SuperSport Schools channel on the SABC Plus streaming platform starting Saturday 8 February 2025, complementing the access South Africans already have to high-quality schools and youth sports through the SuperSport Schools streaming platform.

This partnership marks another milestone in the broadcasting of schools and youth sport in South Africa. The new channel on SABC Plus will feature a selection of content from SuperSport Schools’ extensive portfolio, which includes over 60,000 matches in 2024 across a variety of sports disciplines. The channel will focus on a diverse range of schools and youth sport, including football, netball, rugby, athletics, hockey and basketball.

The aim is to leverage the expertise and platforms of both entities, enhancing the viewer experience and further promoting community engagement. SuperSport Schools is renowned for its high-quality broadcasts and innovative use of technology in sports coverage.

By partnering with SABC Sport, SuperSport Schools, which has more than one million registered users, is extending its commitment to being a driving force behind youth sport. Young athletes will have more opportunities to showcase their talent, with increased potential to open doors to sporting opportunities.

Said SuperSport CEO Rendani Ramovha: “One of the core pillars of this collaboration is ongoing promotion of community engagement, fostering a deeper connection between schools and their surrounding communities. We want to encourage participation in sports at a grassroots level and reignite interest in sports across all schools in the country. Both SuperSport and the SABC share a common vision of providing young athletes with a platform to shine and inspiring future generations of sportsmen and women.”

SABC Group Chief Executive Officer, Ms Nomsa Chabeli stated, “We are proud to be part of this life-changing partnership that extends beyond the fulfilment of the SABC’s mandate, by offering South Africans from all walks of life, a platform that nurtures young talent and provides unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional development. This partnership allows the SuperSport Schoolschannel to be accessible on the SABC Plus streaming platform, enabling rising stars to gain recognition in the early stages of their lives, which will lead to more opportunities in the future.”

Thandolwethu Bakumeni, Head of SuperSport Schools, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled that the SABC is joining us in the promotion of schools’ sport. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to nurture young talent and make schools and youth sports a key part of South Africa’s cultural fabric.  After all, World Cups are won 10 years before they are played.”

Keletso Totlhanyo, Head of SABC Sport, added: “SABC Sport is dedicated to providing our viewers with the best local sports content, and this new venture with SuperSport Schools will allow us to bring even more exciting and inspirational content to South African homes. Schools and youth sport not only foster community and youth development but also bring us the stars of tomorrow. We are proud to be a part of this initiative.”

For more information about the SuperSport Schools and SABC Sport partnership and to access the curated content, please visit the SABC Plus website or download the SABC Plus app available on all major platforms.

FAQs

What can viewers expect?

The curated content will focus on some of the most popular and significant sports in South Africa, including football, netball, rugby, athletics, hockey, and basketball. This selection is designed to cater to the diverse interests of South African sports fans and to promote a wide array of young talent from schools and clubs across the country.

Will the broadcast quality be affected?

SuperSport Schools is renowned for its high-quality broadcasts and innovative use of technology in sports coverage. By partnering with SABC Sport and leveraging the SABC Plus platform, SuperSport Schools is extending its commitment to making youth sports accessible to diverse audiences.

Will SuperSport Schools enhance my SABC Plus viewing experience?

SABC Plus, the OTT service provided by the South African Broadcasting Corporation, is set to enrich its offering with this unique channel, adding significant value to its viewers and reinforcing its role in the digital transformation of sports broadcasting in South Africa.

Media Contact:

Pearl Mashego

SuperSport Schools
Pearl.Mashego@supersportschools.com

Mmoni Ngubane

SABC Sport

Ngubanemv@sabc.co.za

Sibusiso Mjikeliso

SuperSport

Sibusiso.Mjikeliso@supersport.com

Johannesburg – Thursday, 23 January 2025- The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is thrilled to announce its partnership with Cape Racing for the Cape Summer Festival of Racing, bringing viewers and listeners premier horse racing events like never before.

Leveraging the power of South Africa’s public broadcaster, this collaboration will span multiple platforms, including SABC+, S3, Radio 2000, and Metro FM, to deliver a multi-channel experience with on-air, digital, and on-the-ground activations to amplify the excitement of the festival.

Sibusiso Gumbi, Head of Marketing at SABC said “This partnership with Cape Racing reflects the SABC’s dedication to showcasing diverse sporting and cultural experiences to our audiences. Horse racing is more than just a sport—it’s a cultural phenomenon that has captured the hearts of many South Africans for generations. Through our extensive platform offerings, we’re thrilled to bring the Cape Summer Festival of Racing to homes across the country, providing an unforgettable experience to our viewers and listeners. This is a celebration of excellence, entertainment, and the vibrancy of South African culture.”

“This partnership with SABC marks a pivotal moment for Cape Racing as we expand our reach to a broader audience. Together, we aim to celebrate the rich traditions of horseracing while introducing the thrill and elegance of the sport to new generations of fans. The Cape Summer Festival of Racing is not just an event; it’s a showcase of excellence, community, and vibrant culture”, says Donovan Everitt, Chief Operating Officer of Cape Racing.

Multi-Platform Coverage

• SABC+: Exclusive content, race previews, in-depth interviews, and live streaming.
• S3: Broadcast of all races, complete with expert commentary, race-day highlights, and interviews with leading figures in the horse racing world.
Radio 2000 & Metro FM: Special features, behind-the-scenes access, and coverage across popular Sport & Lifestyle shows leading up to and during the events.

Upcoming Highlights

Following the success of the L’Ormarins King’s Plate earlier this month, SABC audiences can look forward to the following Cape Summer Festival of Racing events:

• World Sports Betting Cape Town MET – Saturday, 25 January 2025
• Cape Town Seafood & Jazz Festival: Cape Derby – Saturday, 23 February 2025
• March Royal Raceday – Sunday, 16 March 2025

Broadcast Schedule: World Sports Betting Cape Town MET

For the highly anticipated World Sports Betting Cape Town MET on Saturday, 25 January 2025, SABC platforms will offer live and engaging coverage:

Metro FM
• 9 AM – 12 PM: Top 30 with Kyeezi
• 12 PM – 3 PM: The Encore

Good Hope FM
• 12 PM – 3 PM: The Matinee with Garth B
• 3 PM – 6 PM: The Weekend Special Show with Carissa Cupido
S3
• 2:30 PM – 4:50 PM

Experience the Thrill

Tune in to SABC’s platforms to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of horse racing at the Cape Summer Festival of Racing. Don’t miss a moment of the action as we celebrate South Africa’s rich heritage of horse racing in February and March 2025.
Issued By: Group Communications
Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Head of Communications)
Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za T. 011 714 3057| C. 073 688 1590

Johannesburg – Thursday, 23 January 2025 – A momentous celebration awaits as Umhlobo Wenene FM, in partnership with Black Mobile, hosts the prize handover for the Ingoma Yonyaka competition. The event is set for Friday, 24 January 2025, during a live broadcast of 123Pholaz Unplugged, hosted by Amaza Ntshanga and Lusanda Mbane, from 13:00 to 15:00.

This year’s competition was a resounding success, with over 200,000 votes cast by devoted listeners. With an impressive 52,975 votes, Khuzani claimed victory with his chart-topping hit ‘Imbongolo’, a powerful track that has captivated audiences across the nation.

The event will include the presentation of a cash prize, a symbolic cheque, and a certificate to Khuzani, as well as a live performance of his winning song. This marks a significant moment for Maskandi, a genre often associated with specific cultural roots, as it displays the growing cross-pollination of audience preferences in South Africa.

Loyiso Bala, Business Manager of the Eastern Cape Combo, expressed his excitement about the event and its significance stating, “This year’s Ingoma Yonyaka winner, ‘Imbongolo’ by Khuzani, not only celebrates the rich heritage of Maskandi but also demonstrates how South Africans are increasingly embracing diverse cultural sounds. It is inspiring to see a genre once marginalized transcend boundaries and connect with such a wide audience. We are proud to host this moment and continue to celebrate artists who make music that unites the nation.”

Leroy Monaheng, CEO of Black Mobile, shared similar enthusiasm saying, “As the primary sponsor of Ingoma Yonyaka, Black Mobile is thrilled to support this incredible initiative that highlights the best of South African music. Khuzani’s win with ‘Imbongolo’ is a testament to the power of music to break barriers and bring people together. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Umhlobo Wenene FM to create platforms that empower artists and celebrate their remarkable contributions to our culture.”

Khuzani’s electrifying performance at the ceremony promises to be a highlight, celebrating a year where music united audiences across diverse backgrounds.

Do not miss this unforgettable event! Tune into 123Pholaz Unplugged this Friday on Umhlobo Wenene FM’s social media platforms.

About Umhlobo Wenene FM:

Umhlobo Wenene FM is one of South Africa’s leading radio stations, renowned for its vibrant content and commitment to promoting local talent. With a legacy of connecting communities and enriching lives, the station continues to be a cultural cornerstone for millions of listeners nationwide.

About Black Mobile:

Black Mobile is a proud sponsor of the Ingoma Yonyakacompetition and a leading innovator in mobile technology and digital solutions, dedicated to empowering communities and driving change through strategic partnerships.

ENDS

Media Enquiries:

Issued By: Group Communications

Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Head of Communications)

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

Brandsphere Media proudly enters the South African media landscape as a transformative media and content solutions company redefining how brands connect with their audiences.
With a strong focus on content sponsorship, Brandsphere Media embodies innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to delivering tailored advertising strategies that drive measurable outcomes.
At the helm of Brandsphere is Chief Executive Officer Piwe Motshegoa, who brings over 20 years of experience spanning across media, marketing, and broadcasting. Her extensive career includes leadership in both public and private sectors, focusing on media sales, strategic marketing, and channel management. Piwe Motshegoa’s expertise in driving innovation, building partnerships, and crafting impactful strategies positions her as a dynamic leader with an in-depth expertise of the media landscape.

In a strategic move to expand its reach and amplify its impact, Brandsphere Media has partnered with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), focusing on creating solutions for advertisers on the video entertainment business.

In collaboration with the SABC, the company aims to empower brands to connect meaningfully with South Africa’s rich multicultural market. This partnership positions Brandsphere Media to offer unparalleled access to SABC’s diverse audience base, enabling brands to authentically connect with millions of viewers across South Africa.”Brandsphere Media is more than a media sales company; it’s a partner for brands seeking unique and effective ways to tell their stories while connecting with the diverse audiences the SABC offers,” says Piwe Motshegoa. “We are passionate about creating value-driven media solutions that resonate with audiences and adapt to the evolving media landscape.”

The SABC echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of the collaboration. “Our partnership with Brandsphere Media is a testament to our commitment to fostering meaningful connections between brands and South Africa’s diverse audiences. Together, we will unlock new opportunities for innovation in advertising while contributing to the growth of the media industry,” says Nomsa Chabeli, SABC Chief Executive Officer. Chabeli added that “We strongly believe that this partnership is geared towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of the SABC and brings great prospects of revenue growth. It further encourages brands to leverage on the SABC’s unique value proposition delivering on inspiring, empowering content across compelling platforms and devices in every corner of South Africa.
Whether you are a media planner, buyer, specialist, or agency leader, SABC’s partnership with Brandsphere Media opens an exciting gateway to impactful advertising experiences and value-driven media solutions that stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

For media inquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact:

General Enquiries
info@brandspheremedia.com
Media Enquiries
Karabo M @ Karabo@brandspheremedia.com
Brandsphere Media
Your Brand, Our Sphere of Influence.

About Brandsphere Media

Brandsphere Media is South Africa’s premier content and media solutions company, specializing in bespoke solutions across television, radio and digital platforms. Brandsphere Media is dedicated to delivering innovative, inclusive, and impactful content and media strategies that empower brands to connect with diverse audiences. By leveraging deep industry expertise and a commitment to excellence, Brandsphere Media partners with businesses to craft meaningful stories that resonate and drive results.
About the SABC
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is South Africa’s public broadcaster, reaching millions of viewers and listeners through a wide range of television, radio, and digital platforms. With a mission to educate, inform, and entertain, the SABC plays a pivotal role in connecting South Africans through rich, diverse content that reflects the nation’s culture and values.