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

MEDIA STATEMENT | THE 2023 SOUTH AFRICAN RECONCILIATION BAROMETER SURVEY SHOWS THAT THE SABC LEADS THE PACK IN INSTITUTIONS THAT THE PUBLIC HAS CONFIDENCE IN

Johannesburg – Saturday, 16 December 2023 – As South Africans commemorate the National Day of Reconciliation today, the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) welcomes the 2023 findings of the South African Reconciliation Barometer (Barometer) survey, indicating that 57% of South African citizens have confidence in the Public Broadcaster. The Barometer, which is a nationally representative public opinion survey conducted by the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR), placed the SABC at the top of all Public Institutions which citizens have confidence in. The institutions included in the survey are assessed on their role in ensuring that justice and reconciliation are achieved through their various services offered to the public. The SABC, as a public service broadcaster, plays a major role in contributing to social change by raising awareness and educating citizens about their rights and restoring their dignity through diverse programming.

 

The SABC’s Acting Group Chief Executive Officer (AGCEO), Mr. Lungile Binza stated that “we are very thrilled about this news, and we would like to thank the millions of South African citizens who consistently tune into our platforms. This accolade is an indication of the continuous efforts and strategies to attract and retain audiences, as well as ensure that all our stakeholders’ needs are catered for”.

 

Mr. Binza added that “this achievement demonstrates our commitment to consistently provide quality programming and content delivery. It is a clear affirmation that our brands remain relevant in a fragmented media landscape and continue to serve as the legitimate source of information that the South African citizens have confidence in. It is also more encouraging as we are approaching the national elections and this boosts the morale of our employees”.

 

The SABC joins the nation in commemorating the National Day of Reconciliation and remains committed in delivering its public service mandate by serving the millions of South African citizens.

 

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

 

SABC EDUCATION LAUNCHES THE 2023 MATRIC RESULTS SERVICES

The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) through its Education unit  in partnership with the Department of Basic Education (DBE) is launching its Matric Results service which will operate from 14 December 2023 until 28 February 2024. The Minister of the Department of Basic Education, Ms. Angie Motshekga will release the Senior certificate results on Thursday, 18 January 2024.

 

The SABC Education Matric Results service will release the results to all students across all Provinces who have registered using the SMS, USSD and MatricsMate App on the mid-night of the day of the release.

 

SABC Education encourages learners to pre-register using the SABC Education Matric Results service, and just by registering on the SABC platforms you stand a chance to win instant airtime!

 

All students can register using any of the registration mechanisms, either by SMS or USSD and can stand the chance to WIN a share of R10, 000 in airtime! They can also download MatricsMate App from Google Play and Apple App Stores to receive their National Senior Certificate Examination results.

Learners should register using their examination number on the platform of their choice to access the results.

Register on our mobile services to receive your 2023 Matric Results:

 

SMS

  • SMS your exam number to 45856
  • The system verifies the Exam number; your exam number must be correct in order to be accepted.
  • Learners will be charged R1-50 per SMS, free SMS’s do not apply.

 

USSD

  • Dial *120*45856# enter exam number to register.
  • You will be charged R1-50 per minute.
  • Results will be sent to your phone once they are available.

 

MATRICSMATE APP

 

  • Download for free from Google Play and Apple App Stores

 

All the learners who have queries relating to registration and the use of the SABC Education Matric Results service are encouraged to contact the call centre on 011 507 4755, Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:00. However, on the day of the release of the results, the call center will operate from Midnight to 17:00.

 

For further details on the SABC Education Matric Results services, Mr. Fani Matsebane, Acting Head of SABC Education can be contacted on 0813292868 or Mr. Justice Tshabalala, Digital Manager, SABC Video Entertainment on 0728624150. More details on the App are also available on  www.sabceducation.co.za.

 

Embargo on the publication of results: 

 

The 2023 National Senior Certificate (NSC) examination results will be released at the different schools at 06:00 on Friday, 19 January 2024. These results will be made available to the media houses / Service Providers on Thursday 18 January 2024 at 07:00. The publication of results will be embargoed until 06:00 on Friday 19 January 2024 for all PEDs results, except in the case of the Western Cape. The Western Cape data will be released to the media houses / Service Providers on Friday, 19 January 2024 at 12:00, The publication of results will be embargoed until 16:00 on Friday 19 January 2024.

 

It must be emphasised that the integrity and credibility of the examinations depend on how the results are handled by the various service providers. Failure to abide by the above-mentioned conditions will result in legal action against the recipient of the data, and the recipient will be barred access to all examination results/data in future.

 

NB: Bursaries are available from NSFAS for any course of study. Contact NSFAS on 08600 NSFAS (0860067327), e-mail info@nsfas.org.za or visit www.nsfas.org.za.

 

“SABC Education: Enriching Minds, Enriching Lives”.


END

Robben Eiland Wedloop-Kenneth Makatees

“Wat ‘n wedloop!…..Wat ‘n belewenis !”

Dit som die Robbeneiland-wedloop op wat deur die SABC en Robbeneiland Museum op 2 Desember op die eiland gehou is.

Die hardlopers het vroegoggend reeds in bote op die eiland begin aankom.

Om 8h15 het die eerste groep weggespring.

Die wedloop is gehou om die 60 jaar te herdenk sedert Nelson Mandela en Robert Sobukwe in 1963 die eerste keer saam op die eiland aangehou was.

Alhoewel dit die fokus was, moet ons nie uit die oog verloor dat Robbeneiland vir meer as 300 jaar as gevangenis gebruik was. Die geskiedenis van Suid-Afrika is dus nou verweef met Robbeneiland oor die afgelope byna 400 jaar.

Robbeneiland is ook ‘n ekologiese bewaringsgebied en in die beplanning van die wedloop moes dit ook in ag geneem word. Dit is juis nou die broeityd van die pikkewyne en die besluit is geneem om die wedloop in verskillende fases aan te pak sodat daar nie een-duisend mense op dieselfde tyd hardloop nie.

Alhoewel daar enorme belangstelling was, is daar ná ernstige gesprekke en moeisame onderhandelinge besluit om die deelnemers tot een-duisend te beperk.

Na die wedloop het die deelnemers gratis koffie en roomys geniet wat deur ons vennote, wat deel van die verrigtinge was, verskaf is.

Deelnemers kon ook op ‘n kort toer gaan en die sel van Nelson Mandela en die huis waar Robert Sobukwe aangehou was, besoek.

Uiteindelik was dit ‘n hele ervaring wat ons vir die deelnemers geskep het teen ‘n baie bekostigbare prys van R475. Robbeneiland, wat ook ons vennoot was, het byvoorbeeld die koste van die bootreis vir deelnemers verlaag. Dit is ook nie sommer by enige wedloop waar mense gratis koffie en roomys kry nie. Dit is aspekte wat waarde toevoeg tot die Robbeneiland-wedloop.

Navrae begin alreeds inkom oor volgende jaar se wedloop.

Dit is waar die SABC so ‘n belangrike rol vervul. Die wedloop pas perfek in by ons mandaat om in  te lig, op te voed en te vermaak. Ek wys ook graag daarop dat dit aansluit by ons tradisionele roeping en dit is om mense by mekaar te bring.