The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has called for urgent government intervention to address its ongoing financial crisis. In a recent parliamentary hearing, SABC CEO Nomsa Chabeli criticized the proposed three-year timeline for developing a new funding model, arguing that the broadcaster requires immediate solutions to ensure its viability.
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The SABC has proposed several funding mechanisms, including a device-independent levy, the involvement of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and MultiChoice Group in fee collection, and even the potential requirement for Netflix subscribers to have a TV license.
SABC head of policy and regulatory affairs Philly Moilwa highlighted the significant costs associated with fulfilling the broadcaster’s public service mandate, which includes producing content in all official languages and adapting to technological advancements. He emphasized that the SABC’s reliance on advertising revenue is unsustainable and called for increased government funding.
Moilwa also suggested that the SABC’s public service charter could be streamlined to focus on key priorities, reducing operational costs. He pointed out that the shift towards digital platforms and the decline in TV license payments have further impacted the SABC’s revenue.
The SABC’s proposals, including the device-independent levy and the involvement of SARS and MultiChoice, aim to improve enforcement and ensure that the broadcaster receives adequate funding. However, these measures may face opposition from both the public and industry players.
