Overview
- The SABC marked its 90th anniversary on Friday, July 31, 2026, with official ceremonies and government statements praising the broadcaster’s role in South Africa’s democracy.
- Minister Solly Malatsi said the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies will work with the SABC board and management to support long-term sustainability and modernise the broadcaster’s funding and governance.
- The analogue-to-digital migration remains unresolved after more than 10 missed switch-off dates and recent court rulings halted the latest attempt, even though the DCDT reported in April 2026 that it was edging closer to digitisation.
- Today’s SABC operates across 19 radio stations, six television channels and the SABC Plus streaming service, and it is credited with giving voice to marginalised languages and uniting South Africans during key national events.
- The stalled digital transition risks reducing viewers’ access to free-to-air television, complicates planning for the SABC and rivals such as e.tv, and leaves funding and operational reform efforts tied to the pace of digitisation.