The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has reaffirmed its commitment to transformation by maintaining its BBBEE Level 3 Contributor Status for the past two financial years. This achievement reflects the organisation’s ongoing efforts to embed equity, inclusion, and development across its operations and value chain.

The broadcaster is measured on key BBBEE elements, including Employment Equity and Management Control, Skills Development, Socio-Economic Development, and Enterprise Development. Significant strides in these areas highlight the SABC’s role as both a public broadcaster and a catalyst for national socio‑economic progress.

Driving inclusive leadership

Under Employment Equity and Management Control, the SABC continues to promote representative leadership structures that mirror South Africa’s racial, gender, and ethnic diversity.
This includes steadily increasing the participation of black people, particularly black women, across its Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and top management levels.

These efforts ensure decision‑making structures that reflect the communities the SABC serves, while advancing transformation across the media sector.

Investing in Skills Development

Skills development remains a major focus area for the organisation. The SABC aims to significantly enhance the productivity and capabilities of its employees through targeted training initiatives.

In line with BBBEE requirements, the Corporation continues to invest in the development of:

• Black professionals;
• Black women; and
• People living with disabilities.

Although the organisation made notable progress, it did not fully meet the minimum threshold under this priority element. As a result, while its overall score stands at 96.97 points, qualifying it for Level 2, it was discounted to Level 3 based on the Skills Development criterion.

Nevertheless, the SABC remains committed to increasing investment in this area as a strategic priority.

Supporting Communities through ICT ‑ Focused Projects

As the country’s only public service broadcaster, the SABC is uniquely positioned to drive impact across local communities. Under the Socio‑Economic Development element, the organisation supports initiatives that benefit at least 50% black beneficiaries, focusing specifically on ICT‑related needs.

A flagship initiative has been the annual computer handover programme, which provides laptops to several 100% black schools across three provinces each year. Delivered through the SABC’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) department, this programme strengthens digital literacy and access to technology in underserved communities. For the 2025-2026 financial year the SABC procured 60 laptops to the underprivileged school focusing on information technology in Western Cape, Free State and Limpopo Provinces.

Boosting Small Enterprises and Supplier Development

Enterprise and Supplier Development, remains a critical part of the SABC’s transformation agenda.
Given financial pressures in previous years, the organisation introduced an initiative called the Radio Feature, where ICT SMMEs were interviewed across SABC radio stations at no cost. The airtime provided was converted into a quantifiable financial value that contributed to BBBEE scoring.

The SABC has also implemented a highly successful Incubation Programme, in partnership with GIBS, targeting:

• Black-owned SMMEs;
• Youth-owned businesses;
• Black women-owned enterprises; and
• Entrepreneurs living with disabilities.

Launched in October 2024 and concluding in June 2025, the programme enrolled and graduated 15 SMMEs, offering them training, mentorship, action learning, and pitching opportunities.
Participants gained insights into compliance, funding, market access, and business growth strategies, all aimed at preparing them to become competitive suppliers within the SABC procurement system.

Looking Ahead: A Stronger Commitment to Transformation

The SABC remains steadfast in its mission to drive transformation, not only within the Corporation but, across the broader broadcasting and media ecosystem.

In light of the Level 3 rating, influenced by the Skills Development threshold, the SABC’s near‑Level 2 score reflects a significant commitment to empowerment, enterprise growth, and inclusive economic participation.

Going forward, the Corporation aims to enhance investment in employee skills, expand support for emerging black‑owned businesses, deepen partnerships that strengthen its supply chain and continue uplifting communities through ICT‑based interventions.

The SABC remains dedicated to building an equitable, representative, and economically inclusive organisation that supports South Africa’s transformation agenda.

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.

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, Tuesday, 24 March 2026 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) notes the ongoing public discourse regarding recent programming changes on the SABC News Channel.

As a public broadcaster, the SABC operates under a clear mandate to inform, educate and entertain, while ensuring that its services remain relevant, responsive to audience needs, and financially sustainable. In line with this mandate, the Corporation periodically undertakes comprehensive reviews of its content offering and channel strategy to ensure alignment with public value and long-term sustainability.

The current programming changes form part of a broader channel and schedule review, which considered multiple factors, including audience performance data, content relevance, scheduling optimisation, programme costing and the evolving needs of South African audiences.

It is important to emphasise that these decisions are not centred on any individual, but rather on the overall performance and strategic fit of programmes within the channel’s refreshed content approach.

USE OF AUDIENCE DATA IN DECISION-MAKING

Over a 12-month period (April 2025 – March 2026), Face the Nation recorded the following performance indicators, benchmarked against the SABC News Channel’s primetime performance targets:

*Source: BRC TAMS, April 2025 – March 2026

The programme’s average audience rating reflects a material and sustained underperformance against the channel’s primetime target. Comparative programmes in this time slot typically achieve share levels of approximately 1% to 2%.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE CONTEXT

Across the broader local news environment, top-performing programmes are predominantly live, rolling and event-driven formats.

Importantly, the SABC operates within a competitive environment. While fulfilling its public service mandate, the Corporation derives more than 80% of its revenue from commercial activities with the government funding about 4% and TV Licence fees covering about 16%. In this context, programming decisions must balance public mandate with audience behaviour and commercial sustainability.

The SABC emphasises that this decision forms part of a broader strategic realignment of its news portfolio, spanning both free-to-air and pay-TV services, and should not be interpreted as an isolated action relating to any individual programme or personnel.

The SABC has, in this instance, provided audience performance data in response to significant public interest. Such disclosures are not standard practice due to commercial considerations and have been made in the interest of transparency, without establishing a precedent for future decision-making processes.

The Corporation unequivocally confirms that this decision was free from any political interference and was guided strictly by internal editorial, strategic and performance criteria.

The SABC remains committed to delivering high-quality, credible and relevant content in service of the South African public.

ENDS

Issued By:                         Group Communications

Media Enquiries:            Mmoni Ngubane (Head of Communications)

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

With the SABC embracing the social objectives of broadcasting and amplifying Human Rights broadcasting, this is not just a technical exercise, it is more of a social commitment. There has been a lot of innovations and new technology that have shaped a new way of people consuming TV/radio broadcasting or even content at large. The public broadcasting media still needs to keep its true essence of broadcasting which lies in its ability to create participatory spaces where citizens can express their views, engage in public debate, and remain informed about their society. Other mediums might offer entertainment and the SABC still carries a role of educating and informing over and above entertainment.

This year the SABC’s mission is interlinked with the celebration of 30 years of South Africa’s Constitution under the theme “Bill of Rights at 30: Making Human Dignity Real.” SABC, as the public broadcaster, is at the forefront of strengthening this milestone by ensuring that the principles of democracy, equality, and human dignity are not only remembered but actively lived through its programming. This is not just a celebration it’s a true commemoration that SABC is proud and honoured to be a part.

The SABC continues to maintain its mandate of providing content that is accessible to all South Africans, regardless of socioeconomic or geographical background. The organization has 19 radio stations, five television services, and the SABC Plus streaming app. This way SABC plays a critical role in ensuring that every citizen has equal access to information, this being a fundamental human right.

Guided by its values of respect, trust, integrity, and quality, SABC demonstrates that broadcasting is not just about technology but about the people. All the programmes of the SABC are carefully commissioned and designed to uphold dignity, foster inclusivity, and strengthen democracy. The scheduling of programmes is also in line with these principles. Additionally, a lot of research goes into exploring what do people need and what content would be able to reflect and represent their realities.

Channel Africa as the radio station also plays a vital role in advocating human rights. The SABC extends its human rights support across South Africa’s borders, broadcasting across the African continent and strengthening unity with African nations in their own struggles for justice and equality.

Over and above the normal programming that advocates for Human Right. This year the SABC will be covering events that mark Human Rights Month, based in the Sharpeville massacre of 1960, the SABC reminds citizens of the sacrifices made for freedom and the ongoing responsibility to protect those rights.

 In order to restore human dignity, the SABC programming continues to highlight the plight of vulnerable groups such as women, children, and poverty-stricken communities while mobilising resources to support everyone affected. This alone echoes the broadcaster’s commitment to turning awareness into action.

With regards to educational and civic engagements there are documentaries, debates, and youth-focused shows that emphasise the importance of the Bill of Rights, this is to see to it that younger generations understand their role in sustaining democracy. It’s not only the youth that benefits from this educational aspect of SABC pertaining to Human Rights, but the wider public also gets educated on these issues of major importance.

 Radio stations content regarding Human Rights Day and Human Rights Month

Ukhozi FM has been running weekly expert interviews on water and environmental issues, educating listeners on sustainable management and government programmes. The interactive call-in sessions have allowed communities to share water challenges and get live responses from officials. There is still ongoing short public service announcements have reinforced awareness with water-saving tips, reporting leaks, and protecting infrastructure. Together, these activities aim to promote responsible water use and community engagement. Access to water is a basic human right, and the radio station plays a vital role in bringing attention to and advocating for this essential need.

Thobela FM’s Human Rights Day 2026 programming highlights debates on the Bill of Rights, healthcare, and youth socio-economic struggles, alongside music’s role in democracy and African human rights issues. Weekend shows commemorate the day with poetry, disability rights discussions, GBV awareness, and interviews with activists and musicians. The plan blends talk shows, interviews, sports, and cultural reflections to honour past struggles and current challenges.

Motsweding FM’s Human Rights Month programming centres on the theme Human Rights & Responsibilities. The station commemorates 21 March as Human Rights Day; honouring sacrifices made for democracy and reminding citizens that all rights are equal and interconnected. Content will explore 30 years of democracy, ongoing human rights violations, public awareness of rights and responsibilities, socio-economic factors limiting rights, and the role of ethical leadership in protecting them. The aim is to educate, reflect, and engage listeners on both the progress and challenges of human rights in South Africa today.

Ikwekwezi FM’s Human Rights Month 2026 content features a mix of interviews and listener interactions highlighting key rights issues. Programming covers children’s rights to food, relationship dynamics and consent, GBV protection, rights of children after divorce, consumer rights, and human rights in education. Discussions also explore social media’s impact on opportunities, disability rights, and cultural, religious, and linguistic freedoms. The month culminates with Human Rights Day celebrations, including a national address by President Cyril Ramaphosa and reflections from social workers and activists.

Ligwalagwala FM’s Human Rights Day content blends poetry, talk shows, and interviews to highlight key themes. Programming includes a special poem for World Poetry Day, a talk show on respecting disability rights, and interviews on music’s role in preserving human rights. Further features address GBV awareness, the history and meaning of Human Rights Day, and reflections from a freedom fighter. Short promos run throughout the day, reinforcing messages of liberty, responsibility, and protecting the rights of others. Total dedicated content amounts to 56 minutes.

Lotus FM has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at celebrating and commemorating human rights. The station emphasises the importance of recognising that every culture and language matters. One of the station’s talents, Krsna Priya Dasa, spoke about the significance of inclusivity, highlighting that everyone’s voice matters. She stated, “We all come from different backgrounds and have different stories to tell, but as a nation we are one.” She further explained how Lotus FM celebrates the diversity that makes South Africa strong during Human Rights Month.

Lesedi FM’s Human Rights Month 2026 programming covers a wide range of issues tied to democracy and rights. Weekday shows feature interviews on the Sharpeville Massacre, service delivery challenges, parental rights of unmarried fathers, freedom of speech vs social media responsibility, and police brutality. Weekend and evening segments highlight music’s role in the liberation struggle, peace-making in communities, global conflicts, and children’s rights education. Additional content explores the Bill of Rights, inclusion of disabled athletes, contract rights, race relations in sports, and dramatized features on human rights. Overall, the schedule blends history, law, social issues, and culture to engage listeners in reflecting on rights and responsibilities

As South Africa reflects on three decades of constitutional democracy, the SABC stands as a trusted institution that not only informs but empowers. By embracing the social objectives of broadcasting, the SABC amplifies human rights, restores dignity, and ensures that every citizen has a voice in shaping the nation’s democratic journey.

SABC and Sun City Resort announce the first artist lineup for June event

Johannesburg – Friday, 20 March 2026 – The iconic Sun City Superbowl sets the stage for the second annual Ziyakhala Mo Sun City on Saturday, 27 June 2026, in the North West Province. This year, patrons should prepare for an eclectic celebration as some of Mzansi’s top artists ignite the stage in a captivating showcase of music, heritage, and national spirit. The 2026 edition promises another unforgettable cultural experience, bursting with the rhythm, energy, and soul of Mzansi.

In partnership with the South African Broadcasting Corporation and nine of its African Language radio Stations (ALS), proudly broadcasting in nine South African official languages, the event is set to celebrate cultural musical diversity and amplify indigenous knowledge. SABC’s mandate is to inform, educate, and entertain and now that mission bursts to life on stage. The sold-out inaugural edition of Ziyakhala Mo Sun City in 2025 delivered on all fronts, featuring a star-studded line-up and a diverse entertainment offering that delighted even the most musically discerning guests, while honouring music legends for their invaluable contributions to the industry.

The 2026 line-up is nothing short of spectacular, featuring Shandesh, the queen of lekompo; the legendary afro-pop duo Mafikizolo; Khuli Chana, the Motswak’originator; trailblazing maskandi star Khuzani; amapiano sensation uMashaya Young Stunna; reggae legend Dr. Colbert Mukwevho; Mr Vee Sholo oza ne gwijo; Setswana afro-pop trio Encore; tšepe lyricist Sannere; uNdzundza Neenkhali Zebhosa; DJ Mfundhisi Xikwembu ka Mic; uMafikizolo Mr Hit; and Swati afro-pop sensation Phumla Music, all coming together to celebrate music while honouring another living legend of South Africa’s vibrant industry.

Siphelele Sixaso, GM of SABC Public Broadcasting Service radio stations said, “One of the visions of SABC is to inspire minds and empower lives, radio plays an important role in doing that through our African Music. The African music is one of the cultural features that defines African identity as unique in the world. It unites Africans and provides them with shared cultural traits and a sense of collective identity. “

He further stated, “Ziyakhala Mo Sun City is more than just a celebration, it’s a movement. Its mission is to showcase our nation’s greatness and bring people together through the universal language of music. At its heart lies Ubuntu: the spirit of unity, connection, and shared joy”.

Brett Hoppé, Sun City’s General Manager said, “Last year was a resounding success and Sun City can’t wait to do it all again. We are thrilled to be bringing this event back for a second year and partnering with SABC again to give guests another stunning celebration of our culture.

Hoppe concluded stating “Over more than four decades, Sun City has welcomed many of the world’s most renowned performers to its stages, but it is equally special to celebrate the extraordinary talent found here at home. Our rich heritage and iconic venues make Sun City the perfect stage for artists whose music and culture speak to the heart of South Africa.”

Event Information

Date       :Saturday, 27 June 2026

Venue    :Superbowl, Sun City Resort

Time      : Doors open 14h00

Tickets from R350, VIP tickets at R1750 via Ticketpro Event ticket includes access into Sun City Resort.

Ends

SABC Contact: Mmoni Ngubane (Head of Communications)

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

Sun City Resort Contact: Zinhle Dlamini (PR & Communications Manager)

zinhle.dlamini@suninternational.com T. 014 557 1220 | C. 084 314 6245

Follow Sun City for news updates:

Facebook: @SunCitySA

Instagram: suncityresortsa

Lalah Hathaway joins Robert Glasper & Bilal, as Matt Hansen, Tigran Hamasyan and rising local talent Caleb Dlamini complete the line-up

Franschhoek, South Africa, 16 March 2026 – Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek has completed the programme for its historic inaugural edition with the announcement of internationally acclaimed artists Matt Hansen and Tigran Hamasyan, alongside exciting young South African ensemble Caleb Dlamini & Friends.

Adding to the excitement, organisers have also confirmed that Grammy-winning vocalist Lalah Hathaway will join Robert Glasper and special guest Bilal for a rare live collaboration when the inaugural Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek takes place in the valley of dreams later this month.  

From 27–29 March 2026, the legendary Swiss-born Montreux Jazz Festival makes its African debut in the beautiful Franschhoek valley in South Africa, bringing together almost 40 global icons, African innovators and emerging talent in a vibrant celebration of musical discovery.

The final additions further enriches a programme that celebrates musical excellence in all its forms.

Singer-songwriter Matt Hansen, whose emotionally resonant music and storytelling have earned him a massive global following –including millions of fans across TikTok and streaming platforms –brings a fresh contemporary voice to the programme. His performance at The Arches stage on Friday night promises to connect with a new generation of music lovers discovering Montreux for the first time.

At the Jazz Village stage on Friday, located in an historic church in the town, audiences will experience the extraordinary artistry of Tigran Hamasyan, winner of the 2003 Solo Piano Competition of the Montreux Jazz Artists Foundation (MJAF). Since then, the Armenian pianist and composer has established himself as one of the most innovative musicians of his generation. His appearance at Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek reflects the foundation’s philanthropic mission to support and accompany jazz talents throughout their artistic journey.

Completing the announcement is Caleb Dlamini & Friends, a dynamic young collective from the host town of Franschhoek. Led by 17-year-old drummer prodigy Caleb Dlamini, the ensemble represents the next generation of South African musicians shaping the country’s evolving jazz landscape.

Dlamini’s inclusion carries particular resonance. Supported in his musical journey through education and access to instruments by the festival’s legacy partner, FRANCO, he is both a remarkable young bandleader and a powerful symbol of the festival’s commitment to nurturing future talent.  Some of the valley’s talent is also currently being incubated through Franschhoek’s Uncorked Music Academy, such as 13-year-old saxophone player Graigan Papier, also part of the band line-up and who will make a cameo appearance with Kesivan Naidoo’s amaBig Band Experience.  

For Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek, placing emerging artists on the same stages as internationally celebrated performers is central to its vision: creating a space where musical heritage and future innovation meet.

Festival co-founder Raffaella Goedvolk says the final announcement perfectly captures the spirit of Montreux. “What excites us most about this final programme is the meeting of generations – from globally celebrated artists to young musicians like Caleb Dlamini who represent the future of South African jazz.

“That has always been the magic of Montreux: extraordinary artists, unexpected collaborations and the feeling that something special can happen at any moment.”

Buli Ndlovu, Executive Head of Personal and Private Banking Marketing, Nedbank, agrees, saying the festival also represents an important cultural milestone. “Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek is more than a music event, it is a cultural moment.”

“It celebrates creativity, connection, and the extraordinary depth of talent we have in South Africa and across the world. As Nedbank, we are proud to support an initiative that brings global artistry to our shores while creating meaningful opportunities for emerging musicians who represent the future of our creative economy. We curate these moments for our clients to connect with them through their passion, offering experiences that resonate with their appreciation for artistry, culture, and excellence.”

Across the weekend the festival will unfold across stages and spaces in the Cape winelands valley, blending world-class live performances, DJs and vinyl selectors with exceptional food, wine and immersive cultural experiences.

The full programme now features an extraordinary mix of international icons, African innovators and emerging talent.

Park and Ride transport options from various destinations in Cape Town and the Winelands make the festival accessible and a dedicated website run by travel partner Tourvest assists festival goers with seamless accommodation and transfers. Please visit https://www.tourvestdm.com/mjf/ for more information on these options as well as for details about the festival’s private chauffer offering.

Please see website: http://www.mjfsa.com/ for further information including details about the un-ticketed Sunday Slowdown.

For media enquiries – hi-res images, expanded biographies, interviews etc:

Kaz Henderson | Networx PR | kaz@networxpr.co.za | +27 (0)82 339 1199

Jeni Fletcher | Networx PR | jeni@networxpr.co.za

Social Media:

Instagram: @mjffranschhoek

Facebook: Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek

X (Twitter): @mjffranschhoek

TikTok: @montreuxjazzfestivalsa

Editor Notes:

About Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek (MJFSA)

The Montreux Jazz Festival Franschhoek (MJFSA) is a jazz-inspired, lifestyle experience that brings the iconic Montreux spirit to Africa for the first time. Taking place 27–29 March 2026 in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley – one of the world’s most celebrated food, wine, and art destinations – MJFF will see global artistry meet African soul in a celebration of connection, creativity, and excellence across music, art, and culture.

As part of Montreux’s global family, MJFSA is defined not by scale but by curation: exceptional performances, immersive experiences, and the unmistakable magic of Franschhoek. www.mjfsa.com

The festival is supported by several partners including Nedbank, SABC, Sunday Times, Heineken, and Franschhoek Wine Valley.

About the Montreux Jazz Festival (Switzerland)

Held each summer on the shores of Lake Geneva, the Montreux Jazz Festival was founded in 1967 by Claude Nobs and has been directed by Mathieu Jaton since 2013.  It attracts around 250,000 visitors each year and has hosted legends including Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, Prince, David Bowie, and Elton John.

Organised by the Fondation du Festival de Jazz de Montreux, the festival is renowned for its creative collaborations, legendary performances, and global spirit of artistic exchange. www.montreuxjazzfestival.com

About Nedbank Group

Nedbank Group is a bank holding company listed on the JSE Limited, with a market capitalisation of R118bn as at 30 June 2025. Nedbank is one of Africa’s largest banking groups, with operations in South Africa, Namibia, Eswatini, Mozambique, Lesotho and Zimbabwe, and offshore in the Isle of Man and Jersey. It also has representative offices in other Africa countries, including Kenya, and has key global financial centres to provide international banking services for SA-based multinational and high-net-worth clients in London and Dubai. The group is a diversified financial services provider, offering a wide range of wholesale and retail banking and financial services. Nedbank has maintained its level 1 BBBEE status for the past 7 years and rates in the top quartile of local and international banks on ESG scores.  group.nedbank.co.za

Artists on the line-up:

By Themba Gwejela

In debates about South Africa’s media future, two claims often surface at the same time: that the future of broadcasting lies entirely in streaming, and that “nobody watches the SABC anymore.”

Both arguments overlook something important. They fail to recognise how the public broadcasting ecosystem actually works, and the role it continues to play in South Africa’s media landscape.

Public broadcasting exists to fulfil a public service mandate. Unlike purely commercial media organisations, its role is not only to generate revenue or chase ratings. Public broadcasters exist to inform, educate and entertain, while reflecting national culture and serving audiences across languages and communities.

This mandate fundamentally shapes how public broadcasters operate.

Across the world, public broadcasters are typically funded through a mix of sources, including licence fees, public funding and limited advertising. Very few rely primarily on commercial revenue.

The SABC is unusual in this regard. More than 80% of its funding comes from commercial activities, making it one of the most commercially dependent public service broadcasters globally.

What is often overlooked is that this funding model does not only sustain the broadcaster itself, it also supports an entire creative economy.

Every commissioned programme, whether a drama series, documentary, children’s show or entertainment format, creates work across a wide creative value chain. Independent production companies, writers, directors, actors, presenters, technicians, editors and composers all form part of this ecosystem.

Public broadcasting therefore remains one of the largest investors in local storytelling and creative talent in South Africa. Each production helps sustain jobs while ensuring South African stories continue to be told by South Africans.

Yet the funding model that supports this ecosystem has come under growing strain.

South Africa’s television licence fee currently stands at around R265 per year and has remained largely unchanged for about 14 years. Over that period, the cost of producing content has risen significantly. Production budgets have increased, technology infrastructure has become more expensive, and audiences increasingly expect content to be available across multiple platforms.

At the same time, licence fee evasion remains high, further reducing the available funding pool.

The result is a system that is increasingly expected to deliver more with fewer resources.

Audiences expect high-quality local dramas, trusted news coverage, children’s programming, sports broadcasting and digital platforms that allow them to watch content wherever and whenever they choose. Meeting those expectations requires significant investment.

Sport provides a useful example of how this ecosystem functions. Major sporting events do not simply appear on television – broadcast rights must be purchased, and globally those rights have become increasingly expensive. In fact, broadcast rights revenue is a major source of funding for professional leagues, national teams and development programmes across many sporting codes.

In South Africa, certain sporting events are designated as events of national importance, meaning they must be available on free-to-air television. However, those rights still need to be purchased using the same revenue pool that funds news, local productions and digital platforms.

Understanding this ecosystem also helps explain another widely repeated claim: that nobody watches the SABC anymore.

The reality is that South Africa’s television landscape is structured around two types of platforms: free-to-air broadcasting, such as the SABC and e.tv, and subscription television services such as DStv.

The key difference between these platforms is access.

Free-to-air television is available to any household with a television set and the ability to receive a signal. Subscription services require a monthly fee. That difference significantly shapes audience reach.

Because free-to-air television remains the most accessible platform, it continues to deliver the largest audiences in the country.

This is why many of South Africa’s most watched programmes regularly appear on SABC and eTV channels. Shows such as Skeem Saam, Generations and Uzalo have remained among the most widely watched programmes in the country for years.

Another detail often overlooked is that South African broadcasting regulations require Pay-TV operators to carry the free-to-air channels. These “must-carry” rules ensure that public broadcasting services remain widely accessible across platforms.

Public broadcasting, therefore, is about far more than television channels.

It is a national media ecosystem that supports local storytelling, sustains thousands of jobs and ensures that a country can see and hear itself reflected in its own media landscape.

In a rapidly evolving digital environment, recognising and sustaining that public value has never been more important.

About the author
Themba Gwejela is the Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing at the SABC.

Johannesburg – Monday, 09 March 2026 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) will broadcast an exciting international football spectacle, as German Bundesliga side RB Leipzig travels to South Africa for the first time to face Premier Soccer League champions Mamelodi Sundowns in a blockbuster friendly match. As the official broadcaster, the SABC will bring the highly anticipated clash live to audiences across the country.

The historic encounter forms part of RB Leipzig’s “RE KAOFELA” Tour meaning “all together”, which will see the RB Leipzig club based in Johannesburg from 26 to 30 May 2026. The tour marks a significant milestone for the German club as it expands its global footprint and engages with one of Africa’s most passionate football markets.

The highly anticipated match will take place on Friday, 29 May 2026, at the iconic Lucas Moripe Stadium in Pretoria, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00. South African audiences will be able to experience the action live on S3, ensuring fans across the country have access to this exciting international football showcase.

The clash brings together two football powerhouses known for excellence, talent development, and exciting styles of play. It also represents a meaningful moment of sporting exchange between South Africa and Germany, celebrating the global appeal and unifying power of football.

Speaking on the significance of the broadcast, SABC Head of Sport, Keletso Totlhanyo, said: “As the public broadcaster, the SABC has a responsibility to ensure that South Africans have access to world-class sporting moments that inspire and unite the nation. Broadcasting this international friendly between Mamelodi Sundowns and RB Leipzig gives local fans the opportunity to witness a top European club competing on home soil, while celebrating the strength and global competitiveness of South African football. Moments like these are important because they connect our audiences to the global game, while also showcasing the quality of our local champions on an international stage.”

RB Leipzig General Manager Johann Plenge, highlighted the significance of the tour for the club’s international ambitions:

“South Africa is a particularly exciting football market and a culturally impressive destination for RB Leipzig and the Bundesliga. The passion with which football is lived here aligns perfectly with our ambition to inspire fans around the world through our dynamic style of play.

After successful tours in the United States and Brazil, we are excited to travel to South Africa for the first time and to face Mamelodi Sundowns, a club that has shaped African football for many years and enjoys strong international recognition.”

Mamelodi Sundowns Ambassador and former captain Hlompho Kekana also welcomed the opportunity for local fans to experience a global football spectacle:

“We look forward to welcoming a formidable side like RB Leipzig to Pretoria. Having captained Mamelodi Sundowns against Barcelona in South Africa in 2018, I know how special these moments are for players and supporters.

This match gives us an opportunity to showcase South African football flair, the country’s hospitality, and the rich football heritage of Atteridgeville. We cannot wait to display our style of play – shoe shine and piano – to the world once again.”

The match will be played at the historic Lucas Moripe Stadium, a venue deeply rooted in South African football heritage. The venue also carries international significance, having served as a training facility for the German national team during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, further highlighting its global football credentials.

Through the broadcast of this landmark fixture, the SABC continues to deliver premium sporting content while ensuring that major sporting moments remain accessible to audiences across South Africa.

Football supporters across the country can catch the thrilling showdown between Mamelodi Sundowns and RB Leipzig live on S3 on Friday, 29 May 2026 at 20:00.

About SABC Sport

As the home for universal access to sport and football, SABC Sport champions South Africa’s passion for athletic excellence. Through free-to-air broadcasting on television, radio, and digital platforms, SABC Sport delivers live coverage of premier football alongside rugby, cricket, athletics, and more ensuring every South African can enjoy the sporting moments that unite us all.

ENDS

Issued By:                         Group Communications

Media Enquiries:            Mmoni Ngubane (Head of Communications)

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