The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is seeking a partner to establish a direct-to-home (DTH) satellite television service. This move comes as the country grapples with the impending analogue switch-off and the challenges associated with digital terrestrial television (DTT).
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The SABC’s decision to pivot to satellite is driven by concerns over the slow progress of the analogue switch-off project, which has resulted in significant audience and revenue losses for the public broadcaster. The complexities and delays surrounding DTT implementation have prompted the SABC to explore alternative distribution channels.
The proposed DTH service will offer a combination of free-to-air and subscription channels, competing directly with existing platforms like Openview. To ensure the project’s success, the SABC is looking for a partner to handle all technical aspects, including satellite uplinking, set-top box manufacturing, distribution, and customer support. The broadcaster will contribute content and marketing support, while the partner will bear the capital costs.
This strategic move highlights the evolving landscape of South African broadcasting. While DTT was initially seen as the future of television, challenges in implementation and the rapid adoption of satellite technology have prompted a re-evaluation of this approach.
As the SABC seeks to expand its reach and revenue streams, the partnership with a DTH service provider could be a crucial step in securing the broadcaster’s future.
