Johannesburg – Friday, 28 January 2022 – Following the SABC’s breach of the South Gauteng High Court Order dated 14 September 2021, the Corporation instituted disciplinary proceedings, in line with its Disciplinary Code, against Ms Magopeni for her alleged role in the regrettable incident.

An open and transparent disciplinary hearing chaired by Advocate Nazeer Cassim SC was held in public on 17, 20 and 21 December 2021.  Ms Magopeni was found guilty of misconduct for failure to take appropriate measures to ensure that the Court Order was complied with.

Advocate Cassim SC dealt with the issue of sanction as follows:  he recommended that Ms Magopeni be given a sanction of a warning. However, if Ms Magopeni made common cause with the remarks as set out in the heads of argument submitted on her behalf, the SABC should, in its discretion and decision-making power, adopt a sanction which is consistent with that of a breakdown in the trust relationship between employer and employee.

In this regard, Advocate Cassim SC gave the parties sufficient guidelines to deal with the issue of sanction, without further resort to himself.

Ms Magopeni was afforded an opportunity to submit mitigating factors and to address aggravating factors identified by the SABC, in line with the rule of natural justice and the audi alteram partem principle.

After several requests for extensions, instead of taking up the opportunity to submit her mitigating factors and distance herself from the remarks in, amongst other things, the heads of argument submitted on her behalf, she elected not to submit her mitigating factors. Thus, she waived her right to do so.

In the absence Ms Magopeni’s mitigating factors, the SABC concluded that there is a breakdown in the trust relationship between her and the SABC.

Consequently, Ms Magopeni’s services have been terminated with immediate effect and she has been informed accordingly.

Ends

Issued By:                              Group Communications  

Media Enquiries:                Ms. Gugu Ntuli (Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing) NtuliGM@sabc.co.za|T. 011 714 3311|C. 071 877 0513

Johannesburg – Thursday, 27 January 2022 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) would like to express its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and followers of Ms Winnie Mahlangu.

Ms. Mahlangu who was affectionately known as Mafungwase, joined the public service broadcaster as the first black female broadcaster at the erstwhile Radio Bantu in 1962. She was well known for her warm nature, her meaningful influence to the station as well as her contribution to empowerment of female counterparts in the industry. She retired from the Corporation in 1993.

In her honour and for a continued involvement beyond her tenure at the SABC, Ukhozi fm launched the Winnie Mahlangu Female Presenter Search as part of women’s month commemorations in 2020. This annual competition has begun to unearth new female radio talent and is set to open more doors to many other inspiring female radio broadcasters.

Ms Mahlangu also received The Order of Ikhamanga in Silver from the Presidency, for her role in the growth of listenership of the biggest radio station in the country – former Radio Zulu – and  her unmatched contribution to the field of broadcasting.

May her soul rest in peace.

Ends

Issued By:                           Group Communications  

Media Enquiries:                Ms. Gugu Ntuli (Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing) NtuliGM@sabc.co.za|T. 011 714 3311|C. 071 877 0513

Johannesburg – Thursday, 27 January 2022. The SABC Board has noted media coverage on the allegations levelled against its Chairperson and the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) by the Group Executive News and Current Affairs (GE). Some of the views expressed are misleading and untrue.

On 2 December 2021, after receiving the allegations from the GE, the SABC Board issued a media statement in which it assured the public that it took the allegations seriously and that the matter was being processed fairly in accordance with SABC polices. The SABC Board’s position has not changed in this regard.

A Special Committee of the Board has been established to deal with the allegations against the Chairperson fairly and expeditiously. The grievance against the GCEO will be dealt with in terms of SABC employment and disciplinary policies.

The Special Committee’s mandate includes:

1. evaluation of the allegations made by the GE against the Chairperson, so as to determine whether the allegations constitute a prima facie act of misconduct, and, if so, investigating the merits and veracity of the allegations;

2. making a determination based on the investigation conducted; and

3. making recommendations to the SABC Board on the steps to be taken by the Board.

Should misconduct be proved, the Board is bound in terms of the Broadcasting Act to report the matter to the appointing body. In the interests of procedural and substantive fairness and respecting the rights of all the parties involved, the Board will not be doing a running commentary on the grievance process. We trust that the public and interested parties will allow due process to be followed. The SABC Board remains committed to transparency and upholding the rule of law.

The Board is proud of the significant achievements made in turning around the SABC during its tenure, particularly on issues of governance and accountability.

The Board will continue to steer the SABC towards full recovery so that it achieves the goal of becoming a sustainable public broadcaster and the leading, credible voice and face of the nation and the continent.

Ends

Issued By                   :              SABC Board

Media Enquiries        :               Ms. Gugu Ntuli (Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing) NtuliGM@sabc.co.za|T. 011 714 3311|C. 071 877 0513

Johannesburg – Thursday, 20 January 2022 – Umhlobo Wenene FM would like to announce the retirement of Nomthunzi “Mama ka Ma-Asi” Vuza, who has decided to hang up her gloves after 33 years at Umhlobo Wenene FM, having started with the station when it was still called Radio Xhosa. The legendary presenter began her career as an educator in 1969 and joined the SABC in 1989 to host the show Eyentsatshana until 1990. In 1991, she was contracted to present Ezamakhosikazi, and as the years rolled by, she became an important figure not only in the station’s success, but also in the lives of many of the station’s listeners.

Known for her unique phrases “imithwalo nee ntaba” and “uyazi kangakanani i-bhayibhile yakho?”, her listeners have always been intrigued by the youthful voice of “Mama ka Ma-Asi”- Ma-Asi being her eldest daughter – despite her mature age.

During her three-decade long tenure with Umhlobo Wenene FM, “Mama ka Ma-Asi” was instrumental in structuring the women’s programs unit. She was also at the forefront of implementing systems that have allowed the station to continuously deliver on the mandate to inform and educate the nation, as well as groom some of the station’s best female presenters. Her contribution to the station led to historic performance figures when her show LelikaYehova Ihlabathi, exceeded the two million audience mark back in 2016. Other notable shows she contributed towards were Hlala eThembeni, which aired on Mondays, and Omama nelizwi on Thursdays. Her Friday show always turned into an in-studio kitchen and was supported by many well-known sponsors.

Mama ka Ma-Asi exceeded all expectations and matured like fine wine over the decades. Her hard work and dedication to the ministry of religion and women’s programs, caught the attention of many, resulting in Nomthunzi becoming a recipient of multiple awards before her retirement. These include:

o          The Methodist Church of South Africa special award

o          Inyibiba Woman of Valour award

o          Intlalo ka Xhosa award presented by His Royal Highness King Xolilizwe Sigcawu

o          SABC Best Presenter- Kiddies show award

Apart from community recognition, Mama Ka Ma-Asi also touched the lives of many listeners through the station’s CSI projects, which changed the lives of many families both financially and emotionally. She also contributed significantly to the success of many entrepreneurs, whose businesses grew because of being profiled on her shows.

Another big loss for the station is the retirement of Nomathamsanqa Rweqana, a radio veteran who was appointed as a religious program’s presenter in 2008. Her passion for the ministry of religion led to additional administrative roles at the station, which included tasks such as recording of devotions, prologues, sermons and Imvuselelo. She also presented the Thursday show Mna nendlu yam siyakuMkhonza uYehova. Nomathamsanqa is known by her listeners for her midnight knocks, which she uses as an art to keep her listeners awake. The phrase “Nkqo, nkqo ndikwakho” is synonymous with her show, Ndingu Yehova iGqirha Lakho, which airs at 3am. She speaks fondly of her shows and listeners but says some of the stories they share have been traumatic. She is however content to have been a part of the healing process of many listeners. “Reverend Rweqana”, as she fondly referred to, is a recipient of a Hall of Fame award from the Liberty Radio Awards in 2017.

Business Manager of Eastern Cape Combo, which includes Umhlobo Wenene FM, Mr Loyiso Bala, said: “I consider myself fortunate to have worked alongside such broadcasting legends. It is unfortunate to lose such great institutional memory, but we must allow colleagues who feel their race has come to an end to gracefully hand over the baton. We thank them for all of their hard work over the years and wish them the best in their future endeavours.”

As the two legendary presenters call time on their illustrious careers and leave an audience of over 4,5 million listeners.  As such, the station will embark on an exciting process of searching for brand new talent, set to be launched in January 2022.

The talent search will be developmental in nature and help groom fresh and young talent. The station will be looking for three female presenters, one between the ages of 10 – 15 and two between the 25 – 40 age group, to join a cast of well-known household names at Umhlobo Wenene FM. demos can be sent to demos@uwfm.co.za and more details on how to enter will follow on the station’s social media platforms. Media enquiries can be sent to cwy@sabc.za.

Issued By:                           Group Communications

Media Enquiries:               Ms. Gugu Ntuli (Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and

                                           Marketing)

NtuliGM@sabc.co.za |T. 011 714 3311|C. 071 877 0513      

De Aar – Wednesday, 19 January 2022 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has partnered with the Northern Cape Provincial Government to donate 20 computers to Monwabisi Secondary School in Nzwakazi Location near De Aar. The initiative is part of the SABC’s back-to-school campaign, which offers schools and learners with the necessary support tools to succeed.

Commenting on this SABC initiative, the GE Corporate Affairs and Marketing, Ms Gugu Ntuli expressed that “this is an important initiative for the SABC as we continue to enrich the minds and lives of learners through our CSI and educational interventions. As the public broadcaster, we firmly believe in educational support as a vehicle to develop human capital and enhance a more democratic, cohesive society.   Therefore, we commit to fulfilling our educational mandate by extending this initiative to more schools across the country”.

The Northern Cape MEC of Education, Mr. Zolile Monakali, welcomes the SABC contribution and sees the SABC as a key “partner for educational development” in the Province.  “This is a great example of corporate responsibility.  As we transition into the 4IR, it is appreciated that SABC understands that these computers will open a world possibility for our students, he concluded”.

Northern Cape Premier, Dr Zamani Saul, who will deliver the keynote address at the event stated, “The Northern Cape Provincial Office not only welcomes the contribution by SABC, but we will continue to partner with our public broadcaster as one of our key regional stakeholders who are committed to bettering the lives of learners and the communities in our Province.”

SAFM will be broadcasting live from the event.  Sister station Umhlobo Wenene will also conduct live crossings and interviews during and after the proceedings.

ENDS

Media participation

Members of the media are invited to attend the handover ceremony that is scheduled to take place as follows:

Date: 19 January 2022

Venue: Monwabisi High School, Nonzwakazi, De Aar

Time: 9h30

Media Enquiries:   

Ms. Gugu Ntuli (Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing) NtuliGM@sabc.co.za|T. 011 714 3311|C. 071 877 0513

Ms Bronwyn Thomas-Abrahams, (Media Liaison Officer – Office of the Premier) bthomas-abrahams@ncpg.gov.za|T. 053 – 838 2947|C. 083 447 6586

Johannesburg – Sunday 16 January 2022 – The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) can confirm that an intruder broke into its Bloemfontein office this morning, vandalising the building near its studios.

On confrontation, a fight broke out, and a Security officer fired a shot at the suspect, injuring his lower body. The suspect was taken to Pelonomi Hospital. No security officers or SABC employees on duty sustained any injuries during the incident.

A case (686/01/2022) was opened with the Bloemfontein Hawkes and is being led by Captain Cynthia Moleko, who can be reached on 082 067 5225.

The SABC commends its security officers for containing the situation and preventing further damage to its staff and property.

Ends

Issued By:                           Group Communications

Media Enquiries:              Ms. Gugu Ntuli (Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing) NtuliGM@sabc.co.za|T. 011 714 3311|C. 071 877 0513

HN9 Back to School Competition – T’s&C’s

The competition is open to residents of South Africa aged 14 to 17 years.

There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.

By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.

Route to entry for the competition and details of how to enter are via Hectic Nine-9 social media pages, @HecticNine9.

Only one entry will be accepted per person except for the Bonus Entry should instructions be followed as per competition rules.

Closing date for entry will be 26 January 2022. After this date the no further entries to the competition will be permitted.

No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason.

The rules of the competition and how to enter are as follows:

• Post a picture of yourself underneath the competition graphic with what you’re looking forward to most for the new school year
• Like and share the post & tag a friend (on Facebook)

The prize is as stated as below, and no other alternatives will be offered. The prizes are not transferable.

• 1st Prize – 1st Term School Fees paid worth the value of R 5 000
• 2nd Prize – New School Uniform (full kit) worth the value of R 3 000
• 3rd Prize – HN9 backpack with stationary for the new school year worth R 2 000

The Production Team will be responsible for selecting the winners of the competition. The winner will be chosen based on the following criteria:

• Following the correct competition guidelines
• Authenticity of the motivation
• Truthful account of circumstances e.g., Single Household families; Area or location; disclosure of School demographics; etc.

The winners will be notified via DM (Direct Message) on Social Media platforms Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Winners will need to provide the following details:

• Personal Details such as: ID Number (Prove of age)
• Address, Region.

The above personal data relating to the winner will be used solely for this competition only.

Winners, once they are announced will have to respond to the communication send to them within 3 days of communication, otherwise, they will forfeit the prize to the runner up.

The winner agrees to the use of his/her name and image in any publicity material, as well as their entry.

Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions

Ukhozi FM will on Friday, December 31, 2021, shake things up a little with an exciting New Year’s Eve line up where a team of On-Air Presenters has been specially arranged to deliver specialized shows on the day. This exciting line-up promises to keep listeners entertained throughout the day as we build up to the crossover song Ingoma Ehlukanisa Unyaka at midnight.

In true Ukhozi FM culture, the announcement of the popular Ingoma Ehlukanisa Unyaka will be the highlight of the day as the song with the most votes will cross over into 2022. Voters still have the opportunity to decide the winners as voting ends at 12 noon on Friday, December 31, 2021. The station will have two popular Ukhozi fm presenters host the crossover show, which will air from 21:00 – 01:00. To keep up the suspense of who will host the show, listeners will have to tune in to the show to find out who will be hosting it.

Ingoma Ehlukanisa Unyaka is an annual campaign where the majority of South Africans, no matter where they are in the country or how old they are, stop everything to tune into Ukhozi fm to experience the crossover song that takes South Africans from one year to the next on New Year’s Eve. This song is preceded by a countdown that starts from number 10.

Listeners participating in the Ingoma Ehlukanisa Unyaka competition are encouraged to increase their chances of winning a share of R155 000 by sending an SMS to 33665 to vote for their favourite artist and song.

Prizes up for grabs for those who vote for the winner:

– Third prize winner – R30 000
– Second prize winner – R50 000
– First prize winner – R75 000

Ukhozi FM Business Manager, Ms Sbongi Ngcobo, stated: “Ukhozi fm will be closing the year off with an exciting line-up leading up to the most popular crossover show in the country. The station will host its #UkhozifmNYE crossover show from 21:00 – 01:00 with the highly anticipated announcement of Ingoma Ehlukanisa Unyaka at midnight. Listeners can look forward to a fun filled day with lots of prizes; engagements with their favourite presenters and a lot of great music to usher in 2022. We wish our 8 million listeners a safe, happy and prosperous New Year.

The #UkhozifmNYE line-up is as follows:

Ukhozi fm Luhamba Phambili

Ends.

Issued By:                           Group Communications

Media Enquiries:                Ms. Gugu Ntuli (Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Marketing) NtuliGM@sabc.co.za|T. 011 714 3311|C. 071 877 0513