MEDIA STATEMENT | SABC VIDEO ENTERTAINMENT’S CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS FOR LONG FORMAT DRAMA SERIES

Commissioning Request for Content- Drama Long Form Series May 2023 26.5.23 Final Version for release

 

Johannesburg – Friday, 26 May 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation’s (SABC) Video Entertainment, Content Division is excited to invite producers to submit programme proposals for Long Form Drama Series.
The aim of the call to action is to acquire compelling and culturally authentic content with editorial uniqueness that resonates with our viewers.

Drama programmes hold the prime-time pillar on SABC 1, SABC 2 and S3 to attract mass audiences and drive the public mandate of the SABC to meet Local Content, Local Language and Regional Production License Quotas. The Drama Genre also welcomes Co-funding Partnerships and Industry Development initiatives to advance the Local Industry.

PROPOSAL OUTLINES

SABC1

SABC 1 is looking for long running Drama Series that explore the contemporary urban world of “Youth”. The themes and issues should be rooted, resonant and authentic to the realities confronted by the young in this rapidly changing world. The concept should capture the spirit of our times, with a premise

that is relevant and resonates with youth culture, music, fashion, retro being cool, side hustles, disruption of the norm. Characters should be original, multi-layered, and complex on a journey of self- discovery and truth. They should be agents of change, committed to forging a future that allows them to realize the fullness of who they are or aspire to be. Key focus areas include but not limited to the LGBTQ+ community, strong female skewed stories and people with disabilities.

SABC2

SABC 2 is looking for long running Drama Series that embodies The Power of Hope. The Power of Hope is an inherent part of being a human being. It defines what we want for our futures. Hope involves “planning, motivation and determination” to get what one hopes for. Hope links your past and present to the future. Hope is a motivator to take the next step forward to make things happen. Hope requires a clear vision; it keeps the dream alive. To have hope is to want an outcome that makes your life better in some way. Hope Grows!!! SABC2 is looking for concepts and ideas that broaden and celebrate the South African family in the context of home, society, and workplace. It remains committed to representing South Africa as part the African continent and projecting the rich diversity of the continent. The channel delivers to diverse cultural and age demographics. Its content is aimed at education, informal knowledge building and entertainment through a diverse representation of genre.

S3

S3 is looking for long running Drama Series that reflects the New Age Post-Democratic World. S3 is looking for drama series that explore the impact of this seismic shift in society on the individual, the family, Community, and institutions at large. We are looking for original, highly authored stories driven by complex characters, set in a world that reflects the complex realities and contradictions of the lives of urban South Africans, where high end brands get them a seat at the table, travel is part of self-care, and code-switching is a critical tool in building social capital. We are looking for high end/high concept dramas that speaks to the S3 DNA with themes that focus on class distinction, social mobility, career success, policy advancement that explores the interpersonal dynamics that define this world. Key focus areas include, but not limited to nature and environment, economic reform, gender equity, mental health, culture, and identity.

CRITERIA TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CALL TO ACTION

  • Creatives must bring a rich understanding of the psychological, social, and cultural context of the subject matter.
  • Must demonstrate a keen understanding of the genre chosen for their proposal.
  • Must have a minimum of 3 years’ experience in producing Long Form Drama with at least 1complete Long Form Drama produced and broadcast.

    SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

  • Concept, Brief synopsis of the whole series with an indication of the beginning, middle and an end, Controlling Idea, Dramatic Question, Premise, Logline, and a statement of intent.
  • Script sample.
  • Outline of main character journeys over series.
  • Episode summaries for episodes 1-13.
  • Full budget on SABC Budget Pack Template.
  • Finance Plan for hybrid funding models.
  • Company Profile.SUBMISSION DETAILS
  • Register and complete your profile on our ECAS Portal via https://www.sabc.co.za/sabc/sabc/content- submission-2/ before submitting any proposals. This step is crucial to ensure that you meet all requirements, and that we have accurate and comprehensive information to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
  • Only proposals that submitted via the portal will be considered.
  • Submit your proposal through the designated SABC ECAS Portal available athttps://www.sabc.co.za/sabc/sabc/content-submission-2/
  • All proposals must be submitted no later than 23:59, 28 July 2023 to be accepted.
  • The SABC will send electronic receipts to producers 14 working days after their submission.
  • The volume of the submissions and timelines for responses will be communicated accordingly.
  • Please ensure you refer to the commissioning guidelines on the SABC website to understand howto submit your proposal/programme to the SABC: https://www.sabc.co.za/sabc/sabc/content- submission-2/

NOTES TO THE MEDIA:

  • In August 2022, SABC Video Entertainment issued a call to action inviting local producers to submit programme proposals for new content.
  • Video Entertainment received an unprecedented 998 proposals, with the top three provinces for submissions being Gauteng with 735 proposals, 112 proposals from the Western Cape and 43 proposals from KwaZulu Natal.
  • To date there has been 601 proposals evaluated with a further 397 still to be evaluated. The teams are working tirelessly and diligently to finalise the process and provide feedback to all producers as soon as possible.
  • The Video Entertainment team has already begun the pitching sessions and look forward to engaging with more producers as the process unfolds.
  • Only email queries will be accepted on the following email address; dramaLFS@sabc.co.za. ENDSIssued 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 | UMHLOBO WENENE FM AND BATHU LAUNCH A CO-BRANDED SNEAKER

Gqeberha – Friday, 19 May 2023 – Umhlobo Wenene FM management is excited that the station is adding fashion to its frequency, as the station executes its first conglomerate diversification strategy that involves adding a new product that is significantly unrelated and with no commercial similarities. Umhlobo Wenene FM in partnership with Bathu is launching   a co-branded sneaker today. This sneaker captures the essence of Umhlobo Wenene FM but also embodies the unparallel level of quality and style that Bathu is renowned for.

The launch will take place at Hemingways Mall in East London at the Bathu store, and the limited-edition sneaker will sell for R1000.00 a pair.

This partnership is bringing something truly exceptional to both Umhlobo Wenene FM listeners and Bathu sneaker enthusiasts. Bathu will be the sneaker producer and distribution partner for this new co-branding offering that will be available for purchase on the Bathu e-commerce platform and Umhlobo Wenene FM website.

Umhlobo Wenene FM Business Manager, Loyiso Bala said, “The station is extremely proud to announce the collaboration with Bathu. This limited-edition sneaker perfectly combines our station’s innovative spirit with Bathu’s exceptional craftsmanship. It symbolizes our shared commitment to delivering a unique and unforgettable experience to our valuable listeners.”

“We are delighted to partner with SABC Radio Station, Umhlobo Wenene FM, to honour and show our gratitude to our customers in the Eastern Cape. Our mission as Bathu is to always celebrate and give gratitude to everyone who has supported us since 2015. We are always inspired to produce more shoes and seek such partnerships to help provide opportunities within our various communities,” says Cedrick Diphoko, Managing Director for Bathu.

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 | UMHLOBO WENENE TAKES 63RD BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS TO EAST LONDON  

Gqeberha – Friday, 12 May 2023 – Umhlobo Wenene FM is excited to celebrate its 63rd birthday with a family day event that is themed “Impolo Yabahlobo”. The event is set to take place at Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium in East London on Saturday, 27 May 2023, from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.

The family day event will be packed with entertainment, including music performances by some of South Africa’s top national and local artists, kids’ entertainment, meet and greet sessions with Umhlobo Wenene FM presenters, food and drink stalls, and national DJs who will keep the audience engaged and energised throughout the festivities.

The line-up includes Vusi Nova, Betusile, Nathi, Ntando, Ayanda Jiya, Deep London, London Roots SA, and more. On the decks, the station is set to entertain its audiences with entertainment from DJs including Pastor the DJ, Slyso, Luckeez Mfowethu, Luks Gidane and Elvis.

The crowd will be hosted by Umhlobo Wenene FM’s hottest DJs including Mafa Bavuma, Lusanda Mbane, Amaza Ntshanga, Babe-Zee and Blaq Maci.

The tickets for general access are available at R200 and VIP access tickets will be sold at R800. Children under the age of twelve can enter the event or venue by purchasing a general access ticket for R100 or a VIP access ticket for R200. To get tickets, please visit Ticketpro.

Mr. Loyiso Bala, Business Manager, Eastern Cape Combo says, “the upcoming station event is much more than just an occasion for good food and great music. It is an opportunity for the station to fulfill its brand promise of fostering lasting connections with its listeners beyond the confines of the studio, in a way that is both meaningful and enjoyable. We hope to create a fun and engaging experience that strengthens the bond between the station and its audience, ultimately leading to a stronger and more loyal listener.”

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 | DISCOVER DIGITAL RECOGNISED AT THE  AT THE 5TH ANNUAL AFRICA TECH WEEK AWARDS FOR SABC PLUS PLATFORM

Johannesburg – Thursday, 11 May 2023 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and Discover Digital are pleased to have been recognised at the 5th Africa Tech Week Awards through the development of SABC’s live streaming platform, SABC Plus.  Discover Digital scooped an award in the category, Africa Tech: Public Sector Digital Innovator award on Thursday, 4 May 2023. This award is enabled by the development of SABC’s recently launched live streaming service, SABC Plus.

The Africa Tech Week Awards are aimed at recognising and celebrating game-changers and disrupters in the space of technology innovation on the continent, across a wide range of industries.

The now award-winning SABCPlus streaming service is a rich platform, which has further enabled the South African public to access SABC content wherever they want to.

Since its launch on 17 November 2022, SABC Plus has seen over 10 million page and screen views, with digital audiences exploring the platform for all it has to offer.

Mr. Merlin Naicker stated, “The SABC thrives in mutually benefitting partnerships that enable the Corporation to fulfill its public service mandate. This achievement bears testimony to the fact that through collaborative work, we can succeed. We are very proud of this achievement as SABC Plus has only been in the market for a short amount of time and it is amazing to see it’s growth and the impact it is having on South Africans. We are very thrilled that through this platform we are able to reach the millions of South African households.

Stephen Watson, Discover Digital, Managing Director commented “Being honored with the #SENTECHAfricaTechWeek Public Sector Digital Innovator Award showcases our commitment to innovation, creativity, and our ability to revolutionise the way businesses and the public sector embrace technology. It highlights our instrumental role in transforming public sector organisations. SABC, through the introduction of their OTT platform SABC+, was an essential innovation in the ever-evolving digital landscape which aided in fulfilling the SABC’s mandate of informing, educating, and entertaining South African citizens. As a proudly South African product, we’re thrilled that this is as much of an SABC win as it is a Discover Digital one!”

The SABC will continue to be innovative in the delivery of its public service mandate and the public needs to look out for more compelling content on SABC Plus.

SABCPlus is accessible on the following platforms:

#ATW23  #SENTECHAfricaTechWeek  #AfricaTechWeek

 

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

Discover Digital Contact Person

Taryn Uhlmann | Executive Head: Product and Entertainment

Taryn@discoverdigital.co.za |T. 010 045 0000

 

CANCELLATION OF RFQ NO: RFQ/LOG/2022/182APPOINTMENT OF A SERVICE PROVIDER FOR THE SUPPLY, DELIVERY AND OFFLOADING OF ELECTRICAL MATERIALS AND SPARES ON AN “AS AND WHEN” REQUIRED BASIS FOR SABC IN AUCKLAND PARK FOR A PERIOD OF FIVE (5) YEARS

MEDIA STATEMENT | THE SABC DISTANCES ITSELF FROM THE FAKE MEDIA STATEMENT ON RADIO LICENCES

Johannesburg – Monday, 08 May 2023  – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) would like to alert the public of a fake media statement which is circulating on various social media platforms titled “INTRODUCTION OF RADIO LICENCES AS PART SABC’S DRIVE TO GENERATE REVENUE”.

The SABC has not issued any media statement making such public pronouncements regarding licences for car radios.

 

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

METRO FM MUSIC AWARDS POP-UP CHANNEL LAUNCH

SABC Video Entertainment is proud to introduce the Metro FM Music Awards pop-up channel, to start broadcasting from the 29th of April to the 28th of May 2023 on the SABC Plus App.

As a build-up to the prestigious awards, the Metro FM Pop-Up channel will launch with the platform taking viewers down memory lane with previous Metro FM Music Awards special moments showcasing highlights from SABC1’s Selimathunzi, The Get-Together Music Special, Live Amp, and The Real Goboza Show.

The Pop-Up Channel will stream live the Metro FM Music Awards Pre-party on the 5th of May 2023, and the After Party taking place on Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm. The Metro FM Music Awards Black carpet and Main Awards ceremony will be broadcast live on SABC1 from 8 pm, with a simulcast on the Metro FM Pop-Up channel launching on SABC Plus on the 6th of May 2023.

Radio personality Lerato Kganyago and TV Presenter Katlego Maboe will host the awards. A range of South Africa’s A-list celebrities is expected to attend and participate in the awards, with media personality Somizi Mhlongo already linked to the event.

Schedule highlights:

Dates Content Times
29 April – 5 May 2023

7 – 14 May 2023

 Metro FM Music Awards 2010 – 2017 20h00 – 22h00
1 – 4 May 2023

8 – 11 May 2023

 Selimathunzi 18h00
29 April – 5 May 2023

7 – 14 May 2023

 Get-Together Music specials 22h00

Dates Content Times
4 My 2023 Music conference 10h00
5 May 2023 Pre-party 18h00
6 May 2023 Black carpet 18h00
Main awards 20h00
After party 22h00

For more information, interview opportunities and publicity images, contact the SABC1 PR office.

Don’t miss the Metro FM Awards on SABC1 and SABC Plus, available to download from Apple and Android App Stores.

SABC COMMEMORATES FREEDOM MONTH

As we close off Freedom Month, and having commemorated Freedom Day on 27 April 2023, the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) joined the country in marking 29 years of South Africa’s democracy.

As we continue to reflect on how far we have come as a country, while remembering the many sacrifices made by many selfless patriots who paved the way for a democratic and free South Africa, we cannot deny the lingering issues of inequality, poverty, and ongoing unemployment that remains the most evident hindrances to South Africa’s goal of national unity, social cohesion, and economic freedom.

The SABC as a public service broadcaster is proud to be a pioneer of public participation among South African citizens. Through our accessible public content, the SABC continues to play an active role in ensuring that all citizens remain participants in their own democratic freedom. Our 19 radio stations, five (5) video entertainment services, and a streaming App,  SABC Plus, are dedicated to programming geared towards realizing the country’s democratic values and relevant content which they can rely on as they deliberate, form opinions, and build their own future.

With this year’s theme being #ExpressYourFreedom, the SABC encourages citizens to reflect on the last 29 years of freedom, by expressing what they would like to see thereby contributing to the overall positive change that can be achieved, as we move forward as a country.

 

By Contributing Writer: Ms. Mahlatse Rampjapedi (Manager: Social Media)

MEDIA STATEMENT | MORE HOSTS REVEALED FOR METRO FM MUSIC AWARDS 2023 (#MMA23)  

Johannesburg – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is thrilled to reveal more hosts of the star-studded and esteemed METRO FM Music Awards 2023 (MMA23), which will take place on Saturday, 06 May 2023 at Mbombela Stadium, Mpumalanga.

 

Further to announcing Lerato Kganyago and Katlego Maboe as the presenters of these prestigious awards, the radio and television personalities will be joined by Somizi (somGAGA) Mhlongo, Mpumi Mlambo, Sipho (Alphi) Mkhwanazi and Zanele Potelwa. This team of energetic and charismatic talent was carefully selected to deliver the most impactful awards ceremony South African audiences have seen in five years!

 

SomGAGA and Mpumi will be holding it down behind the ‘Black Curtain’, while Alphi and Zanele give us the blow-by-blow action and the glitz and glam of the ‘Black Carpet’.

 

“METRO FM has always been a part of my DNA and hosting the awards after a five-year break, gives me the greatest joy! South Africa has been waiting for this prestigious event and I’m honoured and grateful to be able to share it with music fans all over the country. Local music and artists have evolved and come so far in the past five years, and this is a fantastic opportunity for us to celebrate that,” states Somizi Mhlongo.

 

Mpumi Mlambo says, “I cannot express how excited I am to be selected as one of the METRO FM Music Awards 2023 hosts! It is a huge honour to be part of such an incredible event that’s well loved and known not only in South Africa, but globally. I can’t wait to celebrate our local talent along with my co-host Somizi as we hold it down and welcome the winners behind the ‘Black Curtain’.”

 

The awards will be broadcast live on SABC 1, SABC Plus and METRO FM’s YouTube channel at 20:00! The public is encouraged to tune in, to witness some of today’s biggest South African music acts on stage, as well as see their favorite A-list South African celebrities walk the ‘Black Carpet’ and participate in the awards.

Sipho (Alphi) Mkwhanazi says, “I think I share South Africa’s sentiment in expressing how excited we are for the return of the METRO FM AWARDS. I’m thrilled to be a part of this star-studded event and absolutely cannot wait to celebrate our local talent.”

 

“It is such a great honour to be part of this incredible event. Our local artists have come such a long way in the past five years and what better way to bring back the MMA’s than now. We’re incredibly privileged to live in a country that embraces and celebrates diversity in music, art, fashion and culture,” concludes Zanele Potelwa.

 

Voting lines remain open and to vote: Dial *120*45787# and follow the prompts.

USSD rates charged at R1.50 per minute.

Voting lines are open as from 31 March 2023 to 30 April 2023 at midnight, except for song of the year that closes at 9pm on 6 May 2023.

Tickets for all official METRO FM Music Awards 2023 events are available at Computicket:

 

https://tickets.computicket.com/event/metro_fm_music_awards_2023/7215601/7215688/37771

 

Event Date Time Venue Tickets
MMA23 Official Music Conference Thursday, 04 May 2023 10h00 – 16h00 Mbombela Civic Centre Free entry
MMA23 Official Pre-Party Friday, 05 May 2023 18h00 – 04h00 The Prestige Lifestyle Grand, Mbombela From R200
MMA23 Main Event Saturday, 06 May 2023 20h00 – 22h00 Mbombela Stadium, Mpumalanga From R150
MMA23 After Party Saturday, 06 May 2023 22h00 – 06h00 Mbombela Stadium, Mpumalanga From R350
MMA23 Official Love Movement Sunday, 07 May 2023 12h00 – 02h00 Mbombela Rugby Stadium Precinct From R350

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

DEAL OR NO DEAL SOUTH AFRICA DISHES OUT OVER R1 MILLION RANDS TO EVERYDAY SOUTH AFRICANS

Johannesburg , 25 April 2023 – SABC1 is pleased to announce that since launching on the channel, the popular game show Deal or No Deal South Africa has reached a major milestone; winnings in excess of one million rand to contestants.

Deal or No Deal South Africa debuted on SABC 1 screens on the 6th of March 2023 and has gained a massive following with talented Katlego Maboe in the driver’s seat as presenter of the show.

“We are exceptionally elated to announce that Deal or No Deal has distributed over 1 million rands in total winnings since its debut,” said the show’s host, Katlego Maboe. “We have experienced wonderful moments with different contestants from diverse backgrounds on the show, with participants having to make tough decisions and taking risks to win big. It’s been a great ride and we’re looking ahead to what the future brings for many more potential winners.”

Over the past month, the show has seen contestants winning life-changing sums of money. One such contestant, 24-year-old Siyabonga, won a grand sum of R250 000 in prize money after selecting the winning box. Siyabonga is hoping to further his education and to also purchase his first home with his winnings.

“SABC1 is proud to see the show capture the hearts of millions of South Africans,” said Ofentse Thinane – Channel Head SABC1. “We’re also proud to be contributing to the local economy and investing in local talent and we are excited to see growth and future prospects for Deal or No Deal South Africa”

Deal or No Deal has fast become part of appointment viewing for many South African families, and the show enjoys viewership numbers that keep climbing with every episode.

With over 1 million Rands in total winnings in just over a month, indirectly impacting hundreds of  ordinary South Africans, Deal or No Deal South Africa has become a show-stopper, captivating audiences and creating life-changing moments for contestants. As the show continues to grow in popularity, fans can look forward to more exciting moments and anticipation as people become BIG winners!.

Si ON with Deal or No Deal on SABC1, weekdays at 7:30 pm, and S3 weekdays at 5:30 pm.

 

For more information, interview opportunities, and publicity images, contact the SABC1 publicity team.

For media enquiries