MEDIA STATEMENT | SABC GROUP CEO NOMSA CHABELI JOINS GLOBAL TASK FORCE FOR PUBLIC MEDIA

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

MEDIA STATEMENT | SABC ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENT OF MR. LUNGILE BINZA AS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

Johannesburg – Monday, 17 February 2025 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Lungile Binza as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective 01 March 2025.
Mr. Binza has been serving as the Acting COO since February 2024, demonstrating exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to the SABC’s mission. Prior to this acting role, he was the Group Executive: Technology, where he led significant advancements in the organization’s digital transformation initiatives.

A software engineer by profession, Mr. Binza holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Mathematical Statistics. He has furthered his education with a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration (PDBA) from the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science, and two master’s degrees: a Master of Commerce in Information Systems from the University of Cape Town and a Master in Business Administration in General Management from the University of Pretoria. He is currently finalizing his PhD in Ethical Artificial Intelligence.

With over two decades of experience in technology and executive management, Mr. Binza has held key positions in various sectors, including banking and manufacturing. His extensive expertise and visionary approach have been instrumental in driving innovation and operational excellence within the SABC.

In his capacity as COO, Mr. Binza will continue to oversee the corporation’s operations, ensuring the delivery of quality broadcasting services to our diverse audience.

The SABC Board and management are confident that under Mr. Binza’s leadership, the organization will continue to thrive and uphold its commitment to serving the public with integrity and excellence.

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

MEDIA STATEMENT | SUPERSPORT SCHOOLS AND SABC SPORT AGREE PARTNERSHIP TO EXPAND SCHOOL SPORTS COVERAGE IN SOUTH AFRICA

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

 

 

MEDIA STATEMENT | EXCITING NEW PARTNERSHIP: SABC ANNOUNCED AS BROADCAST PARTNER FOR THE CAPE SUMMER FESTIVAL OF RACING

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

MEDIA STATEMENT | UMHLOBO WENENE FM AND BLACK MOBILE TO CELEBRATE KHUZANI’S INGOMA YONYAKA VICTORY WITH GRAND PRIZE HANDOVER

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

Media Statement | Brandsphere Media Partners with the SABC to redefine advertising sales in South Africa

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.

RADIO 2000 & TOPNOTCH ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES POSTPONEMENT OF IYOUTH ENDALA SUMMER EXPERIENCE CAPE TOWN LEG

Johannesburg – Monday, 30 December 2024 – RADIO 2000 in partnership with TopNotch Entertainment regretfully announces the postponement of the much-anticipated iYouth Endala Summer Experience Cape Town leg at the Green Point Cricket Club scheduled for 31 December 2024. RADIO 2000 and TopNotch Entertainment have deferred the event to a date that will be announced soon.
This difficult decision was reached after all efforts were made to ensure the event takes place. RADIO 2000 and TopNotch Entertainment deeply regret and apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused to listeners, partners, attendees, and all stakeholders involved.
All the purchased tickets will remain valid for the new date that will be announced, or full refunds will be made available automatically through the original method of payment within 7 – 10 business days.
For any enquiries related to the refunds or updates pertaining to the event, ticketholders are advised to contact this number 0659479954 or email mehlwanainvestments@gmail.com.
RADIO 2000 and TopNotch Entertainment would like to thank the station’s listeners, event sponsors and other partners, as well as everyone involved in planning this event for their hard work and dedication. While the iYouth Endala Summer Experience Cape Town leg cannot be delivered as part of the new year’s celebration, the station remain committed to delivering more exciting events to the Western Cape audiences. It must be noted that in this regard, the SABC’s Corporate Social Investment activation with RADIO 2000 as part of the iYouth Endala Summer Experience will continue as planned today by visiting Dorothy Zihlangu Transitional House to donate hygiene packs.
RADIO 2000 is also pleased to notify its listeners that the tickets for iYouth Endala New Year’s Eve All Black Affair Day vibe with two dance floors which will take place in United Equestrian Estate, Kyalami in Johannesburg will still take place on 31st December 2024. Patrons are advised to follow @Radio2000_za on social media platforms for more information.

Ends
Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (SABC Head of Communications)
Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za T. 011 714 3057| C. 073 688 1590

Oscar Mehlwana (Managing Director of Top Notch Entertainment)
mehlwanainvestments@gmail.com T 073 424 2946

MEDIA STATEMENT | THE SABC CONDEMNS STAFF MEMBER’S CONDUCT ON A FLIGHT

Johannesburg-Saturday, 28 December 2024-The South African Broadcasting Corporation has noted with concern, audio-visual material circulating on various social media platforms featuring a staff member travelling on a South African airline.
The SABC regrets this incident, and always encourages staff members to uphold the SABC values of respect and integrity in all their interactions. In the video clip, this staff member mentions the SABC and states that this incident will be broadcast on SABC News. We would like to reiterate that SABC News is guided by the Editorial Code and maintains its editorial independence, and the decisions pertaining to all news items are made in the Newsroom and not influenced by non-editorial staff members.
The SABC will use the relevant channels in line with its internal procedures to engage the staff member.

Ends

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

JOINT MEDIA STATEMENT | SABC AND SAFA REFLECT ON THEIR STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP AND THE SUCCESSFUL ACHIEVEMENTS FOR 2024/5

Johannesburg – Friday, 20 December 2024 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), led by Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Ms. Nomsa Chabeli, and the South African Football Association (SAFA), headed by CEO Ms. Lydia Monyepao, held a highly productive meeting at the SABC headquarters in Auckland Park on Thursday, 19 December 2024.
During the meeting, the two organizations discussed the successful performances for 2024 and outlined the plans to deliver on the activities for 2025.
The SABC and SAFA are tasked with a great responsibility to ensure that the South African citizens have access to one of South Africa’s national sport of interest, football. In this regard, both parties continue to intensify efforts to ensure that they deliver on this important mandate, continue to support the men and women’s national football teams and create thrilling and memorable moments for South Africans.
The SABC and SAFA’s partnership has ensured that the nation rally behind Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana. Some of the key highlights that were delivered in 2024 include the broadcaster’s successful live coverage of matches involving SAFA’s various national teams and the public broadcaster’s pivotal role in galvanizing support for Bafana Bafana in qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The SABC has also been a supporter of women’s football, serving as one of the investors during its formative years. This support has contributed to the success of Banyana Banyana, who are now the reigning African champions.
Reflecting on the partnership, Ms. Chabeli shared: “I would like to take a moment to emphasise the significance of the longstanding relationship between the SABC and SAFA, which has successfully delivered football content to the South African public for over 30 years. This commitment by the SABC to fulfil its public mandate is unparalleled and critical to our shared mission.”
The SABC reaffirmed its unwavering support for South African football and its players. “Our collaboration is essential not only for our ongoing success but also for our National Teams. The SABC takes great pride in being a steadfast supporter, consistently profiling key moments for our country and its talent,” Ms. Chabeli added.
SAFA CEO Ms. Lydia Monyepao echoed these sentiments, stating:
“Despite a challenging and often unpredictable period that at times stretched all sporting codes, SAFA prides itself on having been able to deliver Bafana Bafana, Banyana Banyana, junior national teams, coaching activities, referees and numerous other activities to living rooms around the country with the assistance and support of the SABC, our sponsors and other partners.”
SAFA has constantly prepared and presented competitive teams in continental and regional tournaments. “Amongst our teams’ achievements, Bafana Bafana have qualified for the 2025 AFCON after medaling at this year’s tournament (since 2000); Banyana Banyana have qualified to defend their title in Morocco next year at the Women’s AFCON, and our U20 Men’s National Team won the COSAFA Cup thus qualifying for the CAF U20 AFCON in April next year. Our referees continue being called to serve in important CAF and FIFA tournaments and matches, and our technical department is producing more qualified coaches through various coaching courses. All these activities and successes can now be viewed on SAFA TV which is being produced by the SABC, to ensure that we keep the public and our fans well informed” added Monyepao.
The meeting underscored the importance of strengthening this long-standing partnership to ensure that football remains a cornerstone of South African culture and national pride.
In this meeting, both CEOs also expressed concern regarding the recent media enquiries and reports insinuating that the SABC owes SAFA R60m, and that the parties’ relationship is strained. The SABC and SAFA refute the allegations and would like to place it on record that there is no truth in these allegations as the SABC does not owe SAFA R60m.
Both parties are committed in ensuring support for Banyana Banyana and Bafana Bafana as both teams are on a journey of writing great South African football stories.

Ends

Issued By: SABC AND SAFA
Media Enquiries: Mmoni Seapolelo (Head of Communications)
Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za T. 011 714 3057| C. 073 688 1590

MEDIA STATEMENT | SABC RESPONSE TO THE PUBLIC STATEMENTS BY REVEREND FALENI

Johannesburg – Wednesday, 11 December 2024 – The SABC has noted the divisive and misleading statements made by Reverend Mzukisi Faleni yesterday at the memorial service of Umhlobo Wenene FM on-air personality who recently passed away, Ms Nomonde Vakalisa.

It is deeply regrettable that at a sensitive time such as this in which the family and her SABC colleagues are mourning, Reverend Faleni chose to use the memorial service to deliberately mislead the bereaved family, those in attendance and the South African public. This was done through spreading misinformation about the nature of “employment” and treatment of the departed on-air personality. Reverend Faleni is well aware that Independent Contractors/Freelancers are not fixed term or permanent employees, and therefore are engaged differently by the organization.

The Freelance contract or the Independent Contract concluded by the SABC, and its Independent Contractors is not governed by the prescripts of employment and labour laws of South Africa. All the terms and conditions that inform the nature of this type of contract are freely and voluntarily agreed upon by the parties involved. It is therefore disingenuous for anyone to mislead the public in the manner in which Reverend Faleni has done, by creating an impression that freelancers only get to learn about the terms and conditions of engagement when they are sick or no more.

Freelance contracts allow individuals the flexibility to do other additional remunerative work.  It is disappointing that the individual who is raising this matter in such an unfortunate and misleading manner, has himself enjoyed the benefits of concluding and signing a similar freelance contract with the SABC on previous occasions, which allowed him to carry on with his full-time engagements at another public institution, and enjoyed the flexibility that a freelance contract offers.

Independent Contractors/Freelancers are expressly excluded from the scope and the benefits of the statutory protection provisions such as Labour Relations Act (“LRA”) and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (“BCEA”), since they are not defined as employees. Accordingly, Independent Contractors/Freelancers do not have the same rights and entitlements to the same employment benefits and protections that are accorded to employees, and this is common knowledge that is known or reasonably expected to be known by any such Independent Contractors/Freelancers upon entering and/or signing a service contract.

The SABC would like to place it on record and confirm that the on-air personality in question has never expressed any displeasure with the SABC pertaining to her contract, and the SABC can further confirm that the corporation has honoured its contractual obligations towards her accordingly.

 

Ends

 

Issued By:                                             Group Communications

Media Enquiries:                                 Mmoni Seapolelo (Head of Communications)

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