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

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

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

Johannesburg – Tuesday, 10 December 2024 – The winners of the 28th RSG Radio Drama Writing Competition, presented in collaboration with the ATKV, were announced on Monday, 9 December 2024, during the popular program Spitstyd on RSG. This annual competition, which attracts prominent and emerging writing talents, affirms RSG’s role as a pioneer in radio drama in South Africa. Winning this prestigious competition is not only an honour but also an opportunity to contribute to the tradition of bringing radio theatre to listeners’ homes.

According to Estel de Beer, RSG’s Senior Drama and Education Producer, this year’s entries displayed a significant rise in quality. “The judges noted the exceptional standard of entries this year. The winners stood out, leading us to award an additional merit prize. We’re excited to share these incredible stories with our listeners, said De Beer.”

Sonél Brits, ATKV-MSW’s managing director, expressed her pride in the competition, emphasising its role in making the arts accessible and enriching the Afrikaans language and culture.

The winners are as follows:

• 1st Place: Konneksie by Marion Erskine
• 2nd Place: Leniesgif by Hendie Grobbelaar
• 3rd Place: Lyne Wat Kruis by Wilmi Wheeler
• Young Writer: Die Versamelde Dagboeke van Ene Professor Weideman by Shawn Day

Due to the stiff competition, RSG has awarded two merit prizes this year:

• Merit Prize 1: Twee Grafgrawers en ‘n Melkhout by Jaco Versfeld
• Merit Prize 2: Die Vrywording van Egbertus Lodewikus Appel by Manie Groenewald

Winner Backgrounds:

• Marion Erskine, a South African-born writer now based in France, has authored multiple books, including Vlerke vir Almal (2017), which won an ATKV Woordveertjie award. His 2018 radio drama Akwarius also earned him an ATKV Mediaveertjie.
• Hendie Grobbelaar, known for her short stories published in Vrouekeur, has a history of accolades in the RSG Radio Drama Competition, including her 2020 finalist drama Sterrereën.
• Wilmi Wheeler drew inspiration for Lyne Wat Kruis from her personal work experiences and challenges.
• Shawn Day, the 21-year-old winner of the Young Writer category, holds a BA in Drama from Stellenbosch University.
• The ATKV, as the competition’s main sponsor, provided workshops that enhanced the quality of entries this year.

RSG looks forward to hosting the 29th Radio Drama Writing Competition in 2025, with details to be announced soon.

Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who submitted their entries!

Ends

Issued By:                             Group Communications

Media Enquiries:                   Mmoni Seapolelo (Head of Communications)

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

Johannesburg – Wednesday, 4 December 2024 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) announces the departure of Mr. Moshoeshoe Monare, Group Executive for News and Current Affairs, who will conclude his tenure at the end of December 2024.

Mr. Monare, who joined the SABC on 1 June 2022, has played a pivotal role in leading the News and Current Affairs division during a critical period. His leadership has seen the successful execution of key projects, most notably the comprehensive coverage of the 2024 National Elections — a cornerstone responsibility for South Africa’s public broadcaster in a democratic society.

Under Mr. Monare’s editorial stewardship, the SABC delivered election coverage that was thorough, impartial, and reflective of the SABC’s Editorial Code and Policies. His collaboration with the Board, Executive Directors, Group Executives, and operational teams ensured a seamless and impactful broadcast, reinforcing the SABC’s commitment to journalistic excellence.

Throughout his tenure, Mr. Monare upheld the SABC newsroom’s core values of independence and impartiality, leaving the division well positioned to continue serving South Africans with integrity.

The SABC Group Chief Executive Officer, Ms Nomsa Chabeli said, “Mr Monare has been an invaluable asset to our newsroom. His dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to journalistic excellence have set a high standard for us all. Under his leadership, our newsroom has consistently delivered ground-breaking stories that have informed, educated and inspired our audiences”.

As he steps into a new chapter to pursue other interests, the SABC acknowledges Mr. Monare’s invaluable contributions and extends its gratitude for his dedicated service. We wish him success in all his future endeavors.

Ends

Issued By:                                         Group Communications

Media Enquiries:                             Mmoni Seapolelo (Head of Communications)

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

Johannesburg – Monday, 2 December 2024 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation’s (SABC) radio portfolio has reaffirmed its position as a cornerstone of information and entertainment, championing social cohesion, nation building, and the empowerment of South Africans through innovative programming.

On Saturday 30 November 2024, SABC radio stations collectively won an impressive 25 awards at the prestigious Telkom Radio Awards. Lesedi FM emerged as the PBS Station of the Year, a significant achievement for the contemporary Sesotho radio station, which ranks among the top 10 in the country. Lesedi FM also earned nominations in nine different categories, underscoring its excellence.

5FM secured seven awards, including wins for Afternoon Drive Show (The Roger Goode Show), Top 40 on 5, and Best Traffic Presenter (Yonaka Theledi). The station also triumphed in categories for promotions, stunts, and events, including The Greatest Radio Takeover – World Radio Day, while Yonaka Theledi and Jodell Tantij were recognized as Bright Star inductees.

The Eastern Cape Combo of Umhlobo Wenene FM and trufm added seven accolades to the tally. Umhlobo Wenene FM won awards for PBS Content Producer, PBS Station Imaging, and News and Actuality Show (Uphendlondaba). Meanwhile, trufm excelled in categories for Daytime Show (Lunchtime Shandies), Music Show (trufm Top 30), and Breakfast Show Presenter (Makosandile “Boyz” Mpunzi).

Ms. Nada Wotshela, SABC Group Executive for Radio, expressed pride in the portfolio’s achievements, stating: “SABC Radio is built on the principles of inclusivity and creating lasting memories. Our primary focus remains on delivering top-notch performance and ensuring our stations remain competitive in a dynamic media environment. These awards are a testament to the dedication and innovation of our cross-functional teams who work tirelessly to engage and grow our audiences.”

She added that the recognition at industry events such as the Telkom Radio Awards highlights the impactful storytelling and creativity that define SABC radio stations.

Ends

Issued By:                             Group Communications

Media Enquiries:                   Mmoni Seapolelo (Head of Communications)

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

Johannesburg – Sunday, 01 December 2024 – The South African music industry’s most anticipated event, the METRO FM Music Awards (MMAs), is now open for entries for the 2025 edition.

Hosted by the South African Broadcasting Corporation’s (SABC) biggest commercial radio station, METRO FM, the MMAs have once again partnered with the Mpumalanga provincial government and the Motsepe Foundation. The date for the nominees announcement and awards ceremonies will be announced soon.

Kina Nhlengethwa, METRO FM’s Business Manager shares, “We are thrilled to open entries for the 2025 METRO FM Music Awards, especially after an incredible year of vibrant music, released during a time when the country is commemorating 30 years of democracy. Unlike the previous years, where we started with the launch of the awards and only then opened the entries, this year we have decided to provide more time to allow the eligible artists to make their submissions. We can’t wait to see the submissions and celebrate the best of SA music!”

APPLICATION PROCESS

All interested and eligible artists can submit their entries from Sunday, 01 December 2024 until Sunday, 02 February 2025. To be eligible for entry, all recorded albums, singles, and recordings must have been released between 28 February 2024 and 28 February 2025.

The entry guidelines, general rules and regulations are available on the METRO FM website where entries can also be submitted.

The top five nominees per category will be announced at the nominees’ announcement event schedule to take place in February, prior to the main awards ceremony.

CATEGORIES

The following categories are open for entries:

1. Best Gospel Album
2. Best Jazz Album
3. Best Produced Album
4. Best Collaboration Song
5. Song of the Year
6. Best Music Video
7. Best Viral Challenge
8. Best Female Artist
9. Best Male Artist
10. Best New Artist
11. Artist of the Year
12. Best Styled Artist
13. Best Duo/Group 
14. Best R&B
15. Best Dance
16. Best African Pop
17. Best Amapiano
18. Best Hip Hop
19. Best Kwaito/Gqom

ENDS

Issued By:      SABC

For more information, please contact:

admin@metrofm.co.za

Media Enquiries:

Mmoni Seapolelo (Head of Communications and Stakeholder Relations)

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