MEDIA STATEMENT | RADIO 2000’S X ACCOUNT HACKED

Johannesburg – Monday, 03 June 2024 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), would like to alert the public to the hacking of Radio 2000’s X (formerly Twitter) account.

The hack happened on Sunday, 02 June 2024 and X has been duly informed and the station is taking steps to rectify the situation.

Any posts from ‘Tesla News’, which has currently taken over the account must be disregarded by the public. Radio 2000 will keep its X platform users updated on-air and on its other social media platforms, on any further developments.

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

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

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

 

MEDIA STATEMENT | MALA LUTCHMANAN BOWS OUT FROM THE SABC – AS SHE RETIRES AFTER 28 YEARS OF BEING A VETERAN RELIGIOUS AND LANGUAGE PRESENTER AT LOTUS FM

Durban – Monday, 3 June 2024 – Lotus FM is sad to announce the retirement of Mala Lutchmanan, who began her stint at the station in 1995, as she also celebrates 28 years at Lotus FM. This excludes the one year that Lutchmanan spent teaching in England. Upon her return from England, she was offered a contract to continue working with the public broadcaster.

In addition to her regular programmes, ‘Inisai Mazhai’ and ‘The Best of Kodambakkam’, she stood in as a stand in presenter for programmes like ‘Sangeetha Nilaiyamu’, ‘Bakthi Sangeeth’, ‘LocalVocal’ and special programmes for ‘Sivaraathri’ and ‘Krishna Janmasthami’. Thus far, she has presented about 3000 programmes.

Qualified as an educator, Lutchmanan taught at an LSEN school until her retirement a year ago. Further, she has produced 22 publications to date (this include books and CDs). Included in these publications are the biography of Nelson Mandela in Tamil, Valliamma- a child soldier, 2 CDs on spoken Tamil and a set of readers for LSEN learners.

Luchmanan enjoyed a cordial relationship with her colleagues and management at Lotus FM. She acknowledges all of them who played a pivotal role in her journey at Lotus FM.

She has received many awards from India and South Africa. Lutchmanan said that it was a well thought out decision to leave and hand over the baton to someone else. She further said that she will now have more time to complete her PhD and invest more time to her other passion which is writing.

Alvin Pillay, Lotus FM’s Programme Manager stated that, “Mala’s presence at Lotus FM has been nothing short of invaluable. Her passion for radio and unwavering commitment to delivering quality content have left an indelible mark on our team and listeners alike. Through her knowledge and engaging broadcasts, she has enriched the lives of countless individuals and established herself as a beloved figure within our community. We wish Mala all the best in her future endeavours and thank her for her exceptional service to Lotus FM.”

End

Issued By: Group Communications

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

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

 

MEDIA STATEMENT | GLITZ AND GLAM WITH RSG’S MATRIC FAREWELL DANCE PROJECT – ENGELS

Johannesburg – Monday, 27 May 2024 – Apart from your wedding day, your matric farewell is probably one of the most glamarous events of your lifetime, a fairytale evening that will be remembered for a very long time.

In 2023, RSG made the dreams of two matric learners, Alistacia Arendse and Athluano Stevens’ dreams a reality, by gifting each with a custom designed suit and dress specially made by 7de Laan’s wardrobe department. In addition a specialist photographer immortalized the evening on film and RSG’s Fran-Rico Lucas was there to add even more glamour!

David Muller Photography also came on board after hearing Athluano and Alistacia’s stories on air in 2023. He and Fran-Rico Lucas from RSG’s Intune and Jazz on RSG, ventured down to Worcester and Robertson to capture these two special people’s day.

This year, RSG has once againdecided to sprinkle some stardust on another two deserving matric students whose circumstances don’t allow for splurges on things like suits and dresses.

RSG is relaunching their Matric Farewell Dance Project – ENGELS , in collaboration with the Elizabeth Galloway Academy of Fashion.

Amoré Swanepoel, RSG’s Marketing Manager says, “These learners’ stories are what really moved us so much, that we had no choice but to launch this project again.” .

The Elizabeth Galloway Academy of Fashion will work closely with this year’s two winners so they can create the suit and dress of their dreams.

Fiona Abdo, Academic Director at the Academy says, “The Elizabeth Galloway Academy of Fashion was founded from Elizabeth’s goal to empower and develop young women, and our ethos of educating, supporting, and growing the South African youth through Fashion remains a priority.”

She further comments “Fashion is such a great self-expressive tool, and we recognize the emphasis and importance the matric dance plays in the lives of our matric learners. It’s the platform that they get to present themselves through Fashion and styling to their peers and their community. The Elizabeth Galloway team are privileged and excited to be able to work together with RSG and the competition winners in making their matric dance fashion dream a reality.”

Starting 27 May 2024 up until 09 June 2024, the public will be able to email their nominations for deserving students, by following these instructions:

–       Include the name and surname of the person you want to nominate.

–       The date on which the nominee’s matric farewell dance will take place.

–       The gender of the nominee (so we know whether a dress or suit will be required).

–       Disclose whether you have the nominee’s permission to share their story and information.

–       Write a motivation on why you believe this specific individual deserves to win a special dress or suit to wear to their matric farewell.

–       You cannot nominate yourself and the nominated individuals’ matric dance must take place between 01 August and 31 December 2024.

–       Email all of the above information to info@rsg.co.za.

–       For additional information visit www.rsg.co.za.

–       Nominations close midnight on 9 June 2024.

Winners for this year, will be announced on Thursday, 20 June 2024 and Studio47 House of Fashion Fabrics in Somerset-West will sponsor the fabric.

RSG’s matric farewell project was also launched on Monday 27 May 2024 on Morning Expresso on S3.

For more information, visit www.rsgo.co.za or RSG’s social media platforms.

 

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

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

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

MEDIA STATEMENT | SABC ADDRESSES THE ALLEGATIONS OF BANNING FORMER PRESIDENT JACOB ZUMA

Johannesburg – Sunday, 26 May 2024 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has noted the allegations by former President Jacob Zuma stating that the SABC has banned him from expressing his views.

 

The SABC would like to state that the allegations are not true, as from the onset of the formation of Mr. Zuma’s political party, Umkhonto weSizwe, the public broadcaster has covered the party’s activities. In other instances, the SABC has contacted Mr. Zuma’s team for interviews and there was no positive response, and this did not derail the team from trying and even adhering to the invite from his party to cover its activities, including its rally on 18 May 2024.

 

On 22 May 2024, Mr. Zuma’s team contacted the SABC’s Political Editor to cover the party’s announcement in Durban. The SABC duly responded to the invitation to cover the story, the team was only allocated less than 10 minutes and was told not to ask any questions. In this coverage, Mr. Zuma repeated everything that he said at the rally on 18 May 2024, which the SABC covered extensively. In this regard, the team was not able to explore any new angle that would have deemed the story newsworthy. Following the normal editorial processes to broadcast the story, the editorial team decided that there was no new angle to broadcast it.

 

It is therefore disingenuous to suggest that the SABC has banned Mr Zuma or his views.  The SABC’s Editorial Policies are anchored on the highest editorial standards, incorporating the values and principles of the Constitution, the requirements of the law including the Broadcasting Act of 1994 and its Charter which stipulates that the SABC must offer a plurality of views and a variety of news, information and analysis from a South African point of view. In its coverage, the SABC is also enjoined to comply with the ICASA regulations.

 

Group Executive of News and Current Affairs Mr. Moshoeshoe Monare stated that “The SABC always exercises absolute independence and impartially in all its editorial decisions and will not any point suppress anyone’s views. All editorial decisions are based on what is newsworthy and the SABC will always cover stories but the final decisions for final broadcast rests with Editors. In this instance, SABC News Editorial team stands firmly by its decision as there was nothing new that was offered in the interview in question”.

 

The SABC is committed to ensuring that it continues to execute its public interest obligation of with providing news that is fair and void of ethical drifts in editorial decision making.

 

ENDS

 

Issued By: Group Communications

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

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

 

 

 

 

THE MASKED SINGER SOUTH AFRICA RUNNER-UP RHINO RETURNS FOR ANOTHER STINT ON THE SHOW KURT DARREN IS THIS WEEK’S GUEST DETECTIVE, TRYING TO UNRAVEL THE MUSIC MYSTERIES

South African icon Kurt Darren, best known for his singing, songwriting, lively stage performances and multiple music awards, pulled the wool over The Masked Singer South Africa’s detective panel in Season 1, disguised as the fun-filled contest’s formidable runner-up, Rhino.

For many weeks, the four investigators – J’Something, Somizi Mhlongo, Sithelo Shozi and Skhumba Hlophe – incorrectly guessed that Rhino was a rugby or sports giant with an incredible singing talent. Eventually, J’Something cracked the code, naming Kurt as the celebrity behind the massively popular mammal in the cool biker outfit.

This week, Rhino, aka Kurt, returns to the Masked Singer South Africa stage to assist the detectives with their efforts to unravel who the big-name stars disguised in Season 2’s spectacular costumes are. Kurt’s insights might come in handy at just the right time with his first-hand experience of the tricks the masked singers use to stay anonymous right until the end. During their first five weeks on Season 2 detective duty, they have struggled to make sense of the cryptic clues the masked celebrity culprits handed out.

The Masked Singer South Africa files to be opened this week belong to Blue Crane, Boombox, Gold, Owl, Monster and Ice Cream.

One of these dazzling characters will be unmasked, while the remaining five will join Giraffe, Mielie, Butterfly, Rainbow and Diamond in the Top 10.

The celebrities who have been revealed so far are the legendary actress Ntathi Moshesh (Springbok), internationally-renowned comedienne Celeste Ntuli (Tortoise), Real Housewives of Durban star LaConco (Star) and UFC world champion Dricus du Plessis (Wildebeest).


Everybody’s favourite guessing game, proudly sponsored by AndolexÒ, is screened on S3 (formerly known as SABC 3) on Saturdays at 18:30. The rebroadcasts are on SABC 1 on Thursdays at 21:00 and S3 on Fridays at 18:00. 

 

Join the conversation on social media using #MaskedSingerSA. 

 

Instagram- @MaskedSingerZA

TikTok- @MaskedSingerZA

Facebook- Masked Singer South Africa 

X- @MaskedSingerZA

YouTube- Masked Singer South Africa

 

-ends

SABC1 TO BROADCAST MTV SHUGA DOWN SOUTH SEASON 3 STARTS 12 MAY 2024

SABC1 introduces season 3 of the drama series MTV Shuga Down South on Sundays at 19:30, starting on 12 May 2024.

MTV Shuga Down South is a 10-part series featuring young people from different walks of life who navigate dramatic life challenges and learn how to take control of their sexual and mental health issues.

Ayanda Makayi returns as Sol, together with his sister Thuli, played by Dineo Rasedile, face their demons, and navigate life and the relentless challenges three years after losing their mother at the hands of their father. With their father now in jail and the two of them living in two different provinces, they rely on the support of their newly chosen friends and family to make responsible choices as young people in their sexual prime.

Season 3 kicks off with Thuli living unhappily with her aunt in KwaZulu-Natal. After an attempted rape incident, Thuli decides to take control of her own life and make her way back to Jozi so she can be with her brother. But Sol has his problems. He has since moved into a hijacked building in the heart of the CBD, barely able to feed himself and hustling hard to make ends meet. When Thuli pitches up on Sol’s doorstep, he faces the challenge of dealing with what he has been running from – his past. He agrees to let Thuli stay with him, but only if she promises to never breathe a word of what he has done to anyone in his new world and life. Thuli agrees to keep her brother’s secret as she looks forward to starting over.

Thuli soon finds a sense of belonging at a downtown NGO recreation centre, the Khanyisa Centre, that offers free health care services and after-school activities like drummies.

Through the centre, viewers get introduced to a host of new characters. Through the friends that they meet, we will cover issues around sexual health, substance abuse, TB, GBV and gender identity politics.

The series continues to be youthful and vibrant, reflecting on the realities of young South Africans while empowering them with the tools to lead meaningful lives, no matter what their circumstances are.

Cast List

Name Character
Ayanda Makayi Sol
Dineo Rasedile Thuli
Ziya Xulu Warona
Palesa Mothopi Vuvu
Ayakha Ntunja Thembi
Naret Loots Emma
Tyson Mathonsi Snacks
Lobisa Tsatsi Azania
Ayanda Nzimande Kedibone
Chidera Nwoha Khenzo

‘Being a channel for the youth and being at the forefront of youth matters, SABC1 creates a mirror and possible solution to the issues faced by the youth through content pieces. Each year, SABC1 selects issues that become the focus for the year, and the focus this year is on gender-based violence, HIV, mental health and education, jobs and careers. MTV Shuga Down is the first series acquired this year that intentionally addresses the pillars.’ – Channel Head SABC1: Ofentse Thinane.

Angeke Bas’khone with MTV Shuga Down South on Sunday at 19:30 only on SABC1 Mzansi FoSho!

A NEW SEASON OF THE BIG DEBATE NOW ON S3

Johannesburg, 7 May 2024 – To commemorate the seventh South African General Elections, S3 is pleased to announce the launch of The Big Debate on Thursdays at 18:00, from 9 May 2024.

This special edition of The Big Debate is South Africa’s top town hall debate, running for 15 years and the highest profile to date as it coincides with the national elections.

The Big Debate gives a platform to South Africans to talk about their experiences of 30 years of democracy, looking for solutions and accountability from our leaders. The show aims to give South Africans from every walk of life a voice in shaping our shared future. The show will give people of all cultures, ages, and identities across South Africa a chance to contribute to a national conversation from race and identity, leadership, equality and socioeconomic rights to climate change and the energy crisis.

This season of The Big Debate will be hosted by leading radio and television news anchor Thembekile Mrototo. Thembekile will drive the conversations, hosting political leaders, government ministers, social activists, and other experts.

“I’m thrilled to have been asked to host this important season of The Big Debate. As South Africa marks 30 years of democracy and we hold what could be our most important elections, this is still the best platform for dialogue to unpack and even try to find solutions to our many problems. My goal going into the season is to hold the powerful to account whilst ensuring that all voices at the table are heard.” – Thembekile Mrototo.

The TV show will be on air for thirteen weeks. Leading up to the elections the following topics will be covered:

Episode 1: Tintswalo, Democracy’s Child

Our first episode will look at the accuracy and representativity of the story of Tintswalo, as described by the President in his 2024 SONA speech, when it comes to meeting the socioeconomic rights of the marginalised majority. We will be asking what it will take to ensure that the constitutional rights to health, education, and housing are extended to millions more people beyond the Tintswalo’s who have benefited so far. In this episode and the coming ones, we have invited government ministers, social activists, and other experts to the debate. We will also be hosting young people born at the dawn of democracy and those who voted for the first time in 1994.

Episode 2: Election Debate (Part 1)

Episode two is expected to be more of a traditional election debate where the larger political parties are invited to answer questions driven mainly by our audience members. The focus will be on the manifestoes and the records of the largest political parties in South Africa.

Episode 3: Youth and Leadership

This episode focuses on the Leadership Youth Workshop, with an audience of 30 years old or under – driving the conversation, asking questions to the new kids on the block (political parties contesting national elections for the first time in 2024) and some independent candidates.

For more information and interview opportunities, contact S3 Publicity.

Don’t miss The Big Debate every Thursday at 18:00. Starting 9 May 2024, on S3, simulcast on SABC News channel 404 and SABC+.

MEDIA STATEMENT | UMHLOBO WENENE FM PRESENTS THE RETURN OF IMPOLO YABAHLOBO: BIGGER, BETTER, AND BACK FOR 2024

Gqeberha – Tuesday, 7 May 2024 – Get ready for an unforgettable family day out, as Umhlobo Wenene FM proudly announces the return of its signature event, ‘Impolo Yabahlobo’, set to take place on 1 June 2024, at the iconic Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium from 09h00 to 19h00.

 

Following the overwhelming success of its inaugural launch in 2023, ‘Impolo Yabahlobo’ Family Day is back, promising an even grander experience for Umhlobo Wenene FM listeners and the Eastern Cape community at large. Last year, the event was sold out with 7,000 attendees and gained national attention after being featured on Vusi Nova’s reality TV show, “Vusi Nova: Unprovoked” currently airing on SABC 1.

This year’s edition aims to surpass all expectations with a venue that can accommodate 15,000 attendees and exciting new features, including a fully-fledged secured kiddies area with supervised activities and entertainment dedicated to the kid’s zone.

The entertainment lineup for ‘Impolo Yabahlobo’ includes Mandisi Dyantyis, Cairo CPT, Moneoa, Ikhona, Amawele ka MamTshawe, Butho Vuthela, while Umhlobo Wenene FM DJs Luckeez, DJ Zeed, and trufm truTalent 2024 winner, Mmthiz Reloaded, will keep the energy high.

They will be complemented by local talents such as Groovy Christ, Missser & Nhunhuza, 98%, GQ, Mist, Mjazz, Yoba, and Reezyville, The event will be hosted by Moshe Ndiki, and Umhlobo Wenene FM’s Mafa Bavuma, Lusanda Mbane, Amaza, Reggie Solani, Blaq Maci, Yarees, and 5FM’s Zanele Potelwa.

Tickets are available at TicketPro for R250 and R500 for VIP. Children up to 12 years old can enter for R100.

Loyiso Bala, Business Manager for the Eastern Cape Combo, said, “I am thrilled to announce our excitement for the upcoming ‘Impolo Yabahlobo’ Family Day event. This year promises to be even more spectacular, as we introduce surprise guests and performances, adding an element of anticipation and excitement for our attendees.”

Bala further stated, “What sets this event apart is our dedication to showcasing diverse talent, particularly from the rich pool of isiXhosa talent and celebrities across South Africa. As a national radio station, Umhlobo Wenene FM takes pride in representing various cultures and regions, and ‘Impolo Yabahlobo’ serves as a platform to celebrate this diversity.”

The decision to bring the event back to the city of East London, was driven by the overwhelming response Umhlobo Wenene FM received last year. Additionally, the station aims to solidify its presence in one of its strongholds in the Eastern Cape, further connecting with its loyal listeners and supporters in the region.

Umhlobo Wenene FM looks forward to welcoming everyone to this unforgettable celebration of talent, culture and community.

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

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

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

CANDICE MODISELLE SITS ON THE HOT SEAT ON DEAL OR NO DEAL CELEBRITY

Johannesburg, 3 May 2024 – In the next episode, Deal or No Deal Celebrity welcomes media personality Candice Modiselle who hopes to win R250 000,00 for her chosen charity, Unchain Our Kids. Unchain Our Kids is a non-profit organization that endeavours to assist in the combat against child prostitution, child abuse, and other violations of human rights.

Winning R250 000 will make Candice the third celebrity to walk away with a jackpot amount, following the Funny Chef and Rorisang Thandekiso since the Deal or No Deal gameshow debuted on SABC1 in 2023.

The Deal or No Deal gameshow makes dreams come true for ordinary South Africans to stand a chance to win in the battle against the stingy banker. Viewers have also seen two surprised contestants walk away with Suzuki cars.

At the beginning of the show, one of the “Money Models” will hand over her briefcase, which will then be the one that will earn Candice cash for the charity that she is playing for, Unchain Our Kids. Round after round, Candice will eliminate boxes from the money tree with the hope that they contain the smallest amount of money. After each round, the show’s host, Katlego Maboe, receives a phone call from the mysterious banker, offering her a certain amount of cash in exchange for her briefcase. If she accepts the deal, the game is over. If not, she continues to play until she accepts the offer or leaves with the money inside the box initially given.

“I consider it to be a great honour whenever I have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in society. This particular initiative was close to my heart. I admire their courage in alleviating the staggering numbers in woman and children falling victim to human trafficking. To commit to the therapy and rehabilitation of said individuals is a dire need that I was honoured to support. More people should know about them.” – Candice Modiselle.

Tune into SABC 1 on Saturday at 18:00 to see how Candice battles the banker to win money on behalf of Unchain Our Kids.  You can also catch the rebroadcasts of Deal or No Deal Celebrity on S3 on Sundays at 12pm and again on SABC 1 on Tuesdays at 22:00.

For media enquiries

MEDIA STATEMENT | THE SABC SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON THE VETTING OF ITS GROUP EXECUTIVES

Johannesburg – Tuesday, 30 April 2024 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) would like to respond to the recent allegations that its Group Executive for News and Current Affairs, Mr. Moshoeshoe Monare is coerced to embark on a second vetting process or is targeted by the Presidency. The SABC has no evidence to suggest that it is being targeted by the Presidency, nor any of its Group Executives as reported by the media.

The SABC would like to state that the Corporation is classified as a national key point area, and it is a procedural requirement for the public service broadcaster as an accountable institution operating in South Africa to initiate a vetting process on all Group Executives. Consequently, when Mr Monare was appointed in 2022, the SABC would have made the request to the SSA for Mr Monare to be vetted.

All top-level executives at the SABC are subjected to vetting and obtaining security clearance as part of their conditions of employment. This requirement is standard for all executives, and those who complete the process receive a certificate of clearance. The details of this vetting process are outlined in the SABC HR policy, ensuring no surprises, or misunderstanding for executives who have agreed to these terms upon signing their contracts.

For clarity, we would like to confirm that vetting is a normal process for executives at the SABC and there is nothing sinister about it. The newly appointed GCEO, Nomsa Chabeli is also undergoing this clearance as a requirement of her employment contract. To this end, the SABC is not involved in scheduling such vetting, management of the timeframes nor is the SABC involved in any aspect of this process. The SABC Legal Office is available to support any employee should they feel that their rights to free expression have been infringed upon.

The SABC Group Executive for News, Moshoeshoe Monare as stated by the Presidency did not complete the process of vetting as stipulated in his contract. He submitted the Z204 (Security Clearance Form) in October 2022. He has not been asked to go through an unfair second round of vetting and security clearance. It is important to confirm that Mr. Monare consented to the vetting by the SSA when he signed his contract of employment which clearly spells out the requirements as a condition of employment.

The SABC Board of Directors and the Group Chief Executive Officer uphold the Charter of the SABC which enshrines the journalistic independence of SABC news staff. In addition, their freedom of expression is protected by the constitution of the Republic of South Africa.

The SABC values the independence of its newsrooms and is able to draw on the experience of talented journalists reporting in all the official languages to provide consistent, relevant and high-quality content, including information and analysis. Editorial staff are required to understand that with the legislated and constitutional protection of the SABC’s independence comes the responsibility to serve the public with the highest standards of excellence and integrity.

It must also be noted that the SABC’s elections broadcasts are regulated by various prescripts of legislation. During an election period, the SABC is bound to comply with additional ICASA guidelines on equitable coverage of political parties, that are applicable during an election period. Given the upcoming elections, the SABC’s is guided by the commitment to editorial independence, impartiality, transparency, and balance.

The SABC occupies a distinct position of trust in the lives of its audiences. It is the most extensive, all-inclusive and diverse news organisation in South Africa. The SABC considers it a duty to provide compelling, independently produced, bias-free, credible, and useful top-quality news, information, and analysis, which the public can trust in their daily decision making about their lives.

ENDS

Issued By: Group Communications

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

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