NEW TIMESLOT SKEEM SAAM MOVES TO 19:30 – 4 MARCH 2024

Johannesburg, 17 January 2024 – SABC1 officially announces that the popular daily drama Skeem Saam will move to the new timeslot of 19:30, starting 4 March 2024.  

 

The decision to move Skeem Saam to 19:30 is in line with SABC Video Entertainment’s strategy to amplify its primetime local drama offering to its viewers from 19:30 to 21:30 with SABC1s Skeem Saam, Generations- The Legacy, Uzalo and SABC2s Muvhango. The SABC will host two hours of back-to-back drama on the SABC Video Entertainment platform, intentionally targeting a broader audience and ensuring the platform remains competitive. 

 

Skeem Saam, started in 2011 and created by Winnie Serite, has been broadcast on SABC1 at 18:30. The show, set in Johannesburg and Turfloop, revolves around the ups and downs of teenagers trying to find their way through life’s struggles. 

 

Over the years, viewers have seen the character of Mapitsi grow from being a teenage mother to getting married to the father of her child and recently launching a career as a radio presenter. Kwaito and Lizzy grew from being high school enemies to walking down the aisle, Leeto purchasing Bazaruto and losing a licence to practice law after his murder conviction and MaNtuli moving into her dream double-story house.  

 

With the new timeslot comes intriguing storylines full of suspense and intense drama. A Human Trafficking drama unfolds in Turfloop, someone goes down for murder, a soccer star blows up his millions, and there is a new hot couple in town.   

 

“For years, the SABC1 audience has made a plea, requesting to change the Skeem Saam timeslot, stating that the show timeslot is too early for some as the show broadcasts during the travelling time for a lot of the viewers. For SABC1, we see this as an opportunity to make the channel edgier and braver and adapt to the audience’s needs. The world of television is an exciting platform where we should not be afraid to adapt while upholding our responsibility to shape the youth and societal roles.” – SABC1 Channel Head: Ofentse Thinane. 

 

“A timeslot change in our 12th season will definitely be a big change for us and it is something we will have to adjust to. However, we are positive that the change will give us an opportunity to expand and reach a larger audience. We have great stories lined up, and we can’t wait for our viewers to tune in.” – Peu Communications Solutions Publicity Manager: Sumaya Petersen Mogola.

 

For more information, publicity photos and interview opportunities, contact the SABC1 Publicity office. 

 

Angeke Bas’khone with the Skeem Saam new timeslot change to 19:30 starting 4 March 2024, only on SABC1 Mzansi FoSho!

MEDIA STATEMENT | SABC AND ITS PARTNER HOLLYWOODBETS PROMISES AN EXHILARATING FOOTBALL SPECTACLE FOR THE UPCOMING AFCON 2023 TOURNAMENT

Johannesburg-Saturday,13 January 2024-The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and its partner HOLLYWWODBETS promises an exhilarating football spectacle ahead of the Total Energies AFCON 2023 set to start today.

The SABC and HOLLYWOODBETS together with another corporate partner, inked a partnership to collectively enable the millions of South Africans to have access to the most anticipated football tournament.

HOLLYWOODBETS’s Head of Operations, Morgan Shandu said “We are honoured to collaborate with the SABC once again, following the successful broadcast partnership of the global Rugby spectacle, which we made accessible to all South Africans.

Mr. Shandu further stated that “As a proudly South African business and leading sports betting operator, it is important that we play an active role in the community where spreading hope has always been a core principle of ours. We are pleased to be part of the process as we strongly believe that sports unite and brings people together and through such partnerships this has been made possible. We wish the South African national team all the best.” 

A total of 52 matches will be broadcast live by the SABC, including the opening ceremony and opening match, all matches that the Bafana Bafana participate in, quarter-final matches, semi-final matches, and the final and closing ceremony.

The audiences will be spoilt for choice with the best on-air talent for the studio build-up and wrap comprising of the expert analysis from the leading on-air talent of SABC Sport including Andile Ncube, Doctor Khumalo, Steve Komphela, Aaron Mokoena, Rhulani Mokwena, Bernard Parker, Thabiso Mosia, Vusiwe Ngcobo, Reitumetse Nkgapele, Simphiwe Dludlu, Esrom Nyandoro, Thabo Senong,Manqoba Mnqithi,Janine Van Wyk, Andile Dlamini, Hlompho Kekana, Owen Da Gama, Greg Etafia, Gloria Brown and William Katsande.

All the 52 matches of AFCON 2023 will be live on SABC 1, SABC 3, SABC Sport Channel on OVDH & DTT, SABC Plus, SABC Radio Stations in the language of their choice and livestreams on sabcsport.com.

 

The matches will also be available on a catch-up service on SABC Plus, including full matches and match highlights.

Audiences can also follow every single moment of AFCON 2023 on SABC Sport social media pages

   X , Instagram, and Facebook.

 

The full schedule of the matches is attached.

 

Ends

Issued By: SABC Group Communications

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

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

 

Editorial and general enquiries for Hollywoodbets please contact:

 

Kuhle Mkize, PR & Comms Manager for Hollywoodbets email: KuhleM@hollywoodbets.net Tel: 078 1189 609

 

MUVHANGO NEW CHARACTER INTRODUCTION

SABC2 and Word of Mouth Productions announces the return of much-loved characters and the introduction of new faces set to kick off with season 25.

Making an appearance on Muvhango tonight after a hiatus is Buhle Samuels, who plays the role of Matshidiso. Matshidiso is known for her manipulative tactics, which she demonstrates in a seductive manner. She always gets her way in every situation that involves money and finds a way to maintain her lifestyle.

The Muvhango viewers will also see the new character of Manditi portrayed by Tshepo “Howza” Mosese. Manditi is woven from mystery, intelligence, ruthlessness, and charisma. The mystery surrounds his past, creating an air of intrigue. Ruthlessness defines his actions, as he stops at nothing to achieve his goals.

 

In tomorrow night’s episode Sydney Ramakuwela makes a surprise appearance as Mulalo, the Royal outcast, comes back from Mauritius. Mulalo is best known for his scheming, self- victimisation, and constant comparison to Azwindini, as he feels he should also have a predominant role in the Mukwevho family.

 

Aubrey Mmakola, known for his character on Skeem Saam as Private Investigator Ramashala, joins Muvhango as Tshililo Netshitangane. At first glance, Tshililo is a spoilt rich kid who grew up with a silver spoon. He is strong-willed, hard-headed, and very opinionated. But when one gets to know him better, a gentle but troubled soul emerges. His passion is music and events management, but he has no musical talent but dreams of becoming the biggest Booking Agent for musician.

 

Sinete Nemakonde joins the soapie from 11 January 2024 as Reneilwe “Rene” Netshitangane. Reneilwe is a resilient individual, shaped by the indomitable spirit of her alpha female mother. She is an elegant and stunning woman who turns heads when she walks without trying to put in effort. Reneilwe carries herself with an innate poise that mirrors the refined upbringing she received.

 

Mudi Mudau will play the role of Nkele Dikeledi Netshitangane, Reneilwe’s mother, a top Limpopo businesswoman with ambitions to dominate the male dominated construction industry. She is an overbearing mother who smothers her daughter with love and money. Nkele has a dominant character, and she makes her presence felt without even trying when she enters a room.

 

 

For more information and interview opportunities, contact SABC2 Publicity.

 

 

Si la this Summer with Muvhango weekdays at 21:00, only on SABC2.

 

 

For media enquiries:

Caroline Phalakatshela

Publicity Specialist – Video Entertainment

072 382 2032/ phalakatshelamc@sabc.co.za

 

MEDIA STATEMENT | PHALAPHALA FM SADDENED BY PASSING OF ROFHIWA RAMPFUMEDZI

Polokwane – Monday 8 January 2024 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation’s Limpopo based radio station Phalaphala FM, has learnt with heavy hearts the passing of its presenter Rofhiwa Rampfumedzi who passed away on Sunday 7 January 2024, after a short illness.

Rofhiwa joined Phalaphala FM as a Music Compiler  and then  presented Zwa Mitambo, a sport show that broadcasts on  Mondays to Fridays from  19h00 – 20h00 until his untimely passing.

His presence on-air and at the station will be sorely missed. Limpopo Combo Business Manager Madikana Matjila said, “We all are hurt by Rofhiwa’s passing and wish to send our heartfelt condolences to the family and all the Phalaphala FM listeners. To our sports lovers Rofhiwa delivered with passion sports show.  Lastly, we wish to thank all our listeners for sending us their messages of support during this challenging time.”

The SABC extends its condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

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 SPORT SECURES RIGHTS TO BROADCAST THE AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS 2023 IN IVORY COAST AND THE REST OF CAF EVENTS

Johannesburg – Friday, 5 January 2024 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is pleased to announce the acquisition of the Africa Cup of Nations 2023 broadcasting rights and the rest of CAF events for the 2024 season. Total Energies AFCON 2023 is a highly anticipated sports spectacle that will take place in Ivory Coast from 13 January 2024 until 11 February 2024 and will be only available on the SABC channels across all broadcasting platforms in South Africa. With the local PSL season taking a break for the next six (6) weeks, SABC Sport will be offering its audiences and commercial partners the live experience of all 52 matches of AFCON 2023, in which the South African national team, our own Bafana Bafana will also be participating.

In addition, SABC Sport has also acquired the live matches to the rest of the CAF events, which includes all 150 matches of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers, all the 32 matches of CAF CHAN 2024, all matches of CAF Champions League 2023/24, all matches of CAF Confederations Cup 2023/24, all the matches of CAF Africa Women Cup of Nations 2024, all matches of CAF Women’s Champions League 2024 and all the matches of CAF Super Cup 2024. These acquisitions put football lovers and commercial partners in the prime position to experience the world’s biggest football events exclusively on SABC channels, making this great content available to all South Africans for free and with no uncompetitive platform blockages.

For the Total Energies AFCON 2023, SABC Sport has put together a strong content schedule that will ensure that everyone has a front-row SABC action from the Ivory Coast Total Energies AFCON 2023. Over and above all the 52 matches being live only on the SABC TV channels, radio stations, and digital platforms, viewers will be treated to a daily Total Energies AFCON 2023 Preview and Total Energies AFCON 2023 Review shows that will showcase all the upcoming matches of the day, review all the latest updates, goals, and news from each day’s full matches. Each match will be delivered with a studio build-up and wrap comprising of the expert analysis from the leading on-air talent of SABC Sport.

In its promise of making all world-class events available to all South Africans with no barrier or cost to entry, the SABC will broadcast all the AFCON 2023 matches live on SABC 1, SABC 3, SABC Sport Channel and SABC radio stations, Radio 2000, RSG, Umhlobo Wenene FM, Ukhozi FM, Lesedi FM, Motsweding FM, Thobela FM, Phalaphala FM, Munghana Lonene FM, Ikwekwezi FM, Ligwalagwala FM and TRUFM in the language of choice to audiences. In addition, SABC Plus and sabcsport.com will offer free live streaming of all the 52 games, while also offering a free catch-up service for those that may have missed the live action. SABC Sport social pages on Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter) will offer audiences live commentary of every single unmissable moment from every single one of the 52 live matches of AFCON 2023.

The SABC’s Chief Operations Officer, Ian Plaatjes stated: “The SABC team is happy to have made all these great sports activities available to the South African public and would like to express its gratitude to the rights holders, New World Media, and all the relevant stakeholders who worked tirelessly to ensure the fruition of this process.”

The leadership of Dr Patrice Motsepe, the CAF President, has ushered a turn-around in the organization making the Africa Cup of Nations one of the most sought-after properties globally. SABC Sport joins several international broadcasters who will show the games. The SABC would also like to wish Bafana Bafana all the best for the competition in Ivory Coast

Follow SABC Sport and on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates.

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 |  THE SABC SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT REGARDING NEW ALLEGATIONS  

Johannesburg-Friday, 29 December 2023 – Whilst the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) would prefer not to engage further on the various allegations levelled against Ukhozi FM Business Manager, it has become increasingly important to respond in view of setting the record straight following further allegations.

On Thursday, 28 December 2023, the SABC issued a media statement noting the aforesaid allegations. In the aforesaid media statement, the SABC categorically stated that, although some of the allegations are personal in nature, the Corporation will, where it deems it necessary, look into some of them. To this end, the SABC appeals to anyone who has any evidence of such allegations to come forward with same.

The SABC has also noted new allegations, through audio-visual message circulating on social media featuring an individual who had an extinct partnership with the SABC regarding the new year crossover song. The aforesaid terminated was a three-year Event Sponsorship Agreement in relation to the hosting of the SABC Summer Song of the Year Event, which lapsed at the end of March 2019. Therefore, the SABC can confirm that it does not have any contractual relationship with this individual.

 

However, the SABC has noted a pattern in the past couple of years, of continuous various unsubstantiated allegations against SABC Radio Management by the same individual, raised around the same period of year, and always just prior to SABC Radio stations implementing their new year cross-over-songs or what is termed as song of the year. This appears to be a deliberate smearing campaign strategy against SABC Radio and its employees for reasons better known to this individual.

 

It should be noted that all the participating radio stations have campaigns that are dubbed in different names and none of them is labelled SABC Summer Song of the Year as was previously known during the three-year period in which the contract was active. This is so because there is a continuous dispute between the SABC and this individual on the ownership of the SABC Summer Song of the Year, which matter is still pending before the Courts. However, the SABC reiterates that no external party came to the SABC and introduced the concept of SABC radio stations playing the top song/s as the country crosses over into a new year. It must be further noted that the SABC Song of the Year initiative has always been implemented by the SABC for many years whereby SABC Radio stations closed the year with music hits countdown.

 

The SABC would like to reiterate its commitment in assuring the public and relevant stakeholders that the song of the year campaigns on all the participating radio stations are subject to stringent criteria setting processes and sound measures have been put in place for the counting of the votes and announcement of the winners.

 

Ends

Issued By:                              Group Communications

Media Enquiries:                   Ms. Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing)

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

MEDIA STATEMENT | THE SABC RESPONDS TO THE ALLEGATIONS MADE AGAINST UKHOZI FM BUSINESS MANAGER

Johannesburg – Thursday, 28 December 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has noted a social media post purporting to be a media enquiry with a set of statements or questions relating to Ukhozi FM Business Manager.

There are various allegations which have been made and some are personal in nature, and others would require the Corporation to look into, should there be any evidence available to prove the allegations.
It must also be noted that the allegations come at a time when most of the SABC’s radio stations are implementing their song of the year campaigns, and the Corporation has recently noted with concern, the continued pattern of trying to disrupt and devalue some of the campaigns. SABC Radio management is proud of Ukhozi FM’s ability to push through the obstacles and always deliver a successful campaign that not only builds audiences, but secures revenue for the corporation.

The SABC would like to assure the public and relevant stakeholders that the song of the year campaigns on all the participating radio stations are subject to stringent criteria setting processes and sound measures have been put in place for the counting of the votes and announcement of the winners. Ukhozi FM is no exception and has complied with all SABC governance processes.

Ends

Issued By: Group Communications
Media Enquiries: Ms. Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing)
Seapolelomv@sabc.co.za | T. 011 714 3057 | C. 073 688 1590

Radio Bantu on SABC Plus
SABC Plus app

SABC+

Radio Bantu on SABC+

 

Radio Bantu can be found on the SABC Plus app: https://sabc-plus.com/ (Download for free on iOS, android and the web)

Radio Bantu on SABC+

Radio Bantu on SABC+

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vibrant nostalgia echoing through the airwaves, SABC’s groundbreaking 1960s initiative, fostering cultural expression and shaping the enduring legacy of iconic stations in South Africa

 

Nostalgic Radio kept vibrant by the SABC

Step into the time machine and journey back to the dynamic 1960s when the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) laid the foundation for a groundbreaking initiative – the birth of Radio Bantu. Crafted exclusively for African audiences in their diverse languages, this fully-fledged station made its debut with Zulu as its pioneering language. Quickly, other vernacular languages joined the eclectic mix, weaving a vibrant tapestry of cultural expression.

The pivotal moment arrived on January 1, 1962, when the SABC introduced a revolutionary high-frequency modulation system. This not only marked the inception of FM radio but also ushered in a new era of 12-hour mass-based broadcasting, featuring 12 languages. Zulu, Xhosa, Southern Sotho, Northern Sotho, Tswana, Tsonga, and Venda became the voices resonating across the airwaves. The immediacy, accessibility, affordability, and portability of this wireless marvel catapulted Radio Bantu into becoming the cornerstone of black popular culture.

This transformative journey birthed iconic stations such as Radio Sesotho (1/1/1962, now Lesedi FM 1996), Radio Zulu (1/1/1962, Ukhozi FM), Radio Setswana (1/6/1962, Motsweding FM), Radio Lebowa (1/6/1962, Thobela FM), Radio Tsonga (1/2/1965, Munghana Lonene), Radio Venda (1/2/1965, Phala Phala FM), Radio Swazi (1982, Ligwalagwala FM), Radio Ndebele (16/3/1983, Ikwekwezi FM), and Radio Xhosa (1966, Umhlobo Wenene). These radio pioneers, each with its unique language, seamlessly became integral parts of the cultural landscape.

Fast forward to 1996, and these radio stations underwent a transformative evolution, solidifying their current status. Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of these stations that have played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural soundscape of South Africa. And don’t forget, you can also catch the Radio Bantu stream on SABC+ Nostalgic Radio, ensuring that this vibrant piece of history continues to thrive.

The SABC’s relevance in a multi-platform era

Broadcasting in the digital age requires content providers to broaden the quality and scope of their content offering, intensify accessibility and offer audiences value for their time and money. The SABC is therefore duty bound to serve as a public service media with maximum interactivity and cross platform strategies. In the last few years, the SABC’s daily operations have been mainly driven and motivated by extending the Corporation’s content beyond television and radio platforms as well as demonstrating its relevance in the digital era.

 

In an unrelenting and sustained tough operating environment, the SABC made a bold move in launching its first OTT platform, SABC+ on 17 November 2022. In its infancy stage, SABC+ made great strides in the market, as it was recognised at the fourth edition of Tech Africa Awards in May 2023.

SABC + has been navigating the digital wave for a year now and this is an opportune time to reflect on the strides it has made in enabling the public broadcaster to fulfil its mandate in the digital age. The platform provides access to the best programming the SABC has to offer, comprising of 19 radio stations, three television channels, as well as the SABC’s 24-hour news channel and Sport channel. From breaking news, riveting dramas, educational and entertaining features, to the highly contested sporting matches that force viewers to the edge of their seats, SABC+ offers a diverse range of programming that ensures everyone finds their perfect match in the dynamic realm of digital content.

 

Through the SABC+ platform, the SABC has demonstrated its commitment to innovation and accessibility in a rapidly evolving broadcasting landscape and has opened up new opportunities to meet its audience at the point of their convenience. SABC+ has not just met the demands of the digital age; it has exceeded expectations. Recording over half a million users in just a year, this digital venture has become a beacon of success and has made it possible for SABC audiences to stay informed, educated and entertained, at the tips of their fingers.

 

SABC+ exemplifies the transformative power of technology in enhancing connections and fostering closer relationships between the public broadcaster and its audience. This platform demonstrates how the SABC as a brand utilises innovative technological solutions to facilitate meaningful engagement with viewers, creating deeper levels of connection and trust.

 

An important unique aspect of SABC+ is its commitment to inclusivity. Through this platform, the SABC offers free access to a wide range of content, ensuring that quality programming reaches South African citizens in all corners of the country. This aligns seamlessly with the public broadcaster’s brand promise of SABC Everywhere for Everyone. Most importantly, the SABC’s commitment to accessibility and affordability positions it strategically to realise its overarching goal of ensuring universal access.

 

In a media landscape that is increasingly focused on commercialisation and profit, SABC+ stands out as a refreshing alternative, as subscription fees often serve as a hindrance for ordinary citizens to access quality programming. The decision to make the platform accessible free of charge reflects the SABC’s dedication to its public service role, placing the needs of its audiences at the forefront. The platform is also geared towards providing limitless opportunities for clients and advertisers who envisage to locate and access audiences anywhere, anytime and on various devices.

The platform’s popularity bears testament to its user-friendly interface, offering a seamless experience for both the tech-savvy and those new to the digital landscape. SABC+ has not only embraced the future of broadcasting but has also ensured that no one is left behind in this incredible digital journey.

 

According to Statista, South Africa’s Video Streaming (SVoD) market is poised for remarkable growth, with a projected revenue of  $220.20 million in 2023. The market is anticipated to exhibit a robust annual growth rate between 2023 and 2027 of 9.29%, foreseeing a market volume of $314.10 million by 2027. While the United States is expected to lead globally with a staggering revenue of $39,250.00 million, South Africa demonstrates a noteworthy average revenue per user of $28.93 in 2023. Looking ahead, the Video Streaming market is set to expand its user base significantly, reaching 9.8 million users by 2027. The user penetration rate is projected to rise from 12.4% in 2023 to a promising 15.3% by 2027, emphasising the relevance and popularity of streaming services in the dynamic digital landscape.

 

The SABC encourages citizens to be part of the digital revolution and download SABC+ now. By doing so, they contribute to the continued success of a public service broadcaster that is committed to evolve and expand its programming offering to the millions of South Africans it has been mandated to serve.

 

The introduction of OTT platforms has posed increased competition in the market and for the SABC to stand firm against competition it must continue to explore winning strategies that will allow it to compete within the ever-changing environment, whilst ensuring that the core public service mandate of the SABC does not wither.  In the next few weeks, the SABC will be hard at work to enhance the App for a better user experience.

The platform can be accessed on the following platforms:

www.sabcplus.com

Twitter: @SABCPlus  https://twitter.com/SABCPlus

Facebook: @SABCPlus https://www.facebook.com/SABCPlus

Instagram: @SABCPlus https://www.instagram.com/sabcplus/

TikTok: @sabcplus

 

By: Lebohang Sekete (Manager: Internal Communications) and Mmoni Seapolelo (Acting GE: Corporate Affairs and Marketing)

THE SABC SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON THE CONTENTS OF AN ANONYMOUS EMAIL ON SOCIAL MEDIA REGARDING THE PAYMENT OF GHOST WORKERS  

Johannesburg – Sunday, 17 December 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has noted with concern the contents of an anonymous email on social media regarding the payment of ‘ghost workers’ at the SABC News division.

In this regard, the Corporation would like to set the record straight on this matter and confirm that the SABC Group Executive for News and Current Affairs, Mr. Moshoeshoe Monare has launched an extensive investigation into freelance contracts that turned out to be irregular, corrupt and fraudulent.

 

One of the managers under investigation tendered a resignation with immediate effect, while other staff members are facing disciplinary processes. The matter is addressed within the SABC’s human resources policies and will also be referred to the other relevant authorities for further investigation.

 

The SABC would also like to appeal to the public to refrain from distributing the fake email that contains unverified information.

 

 

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