South Africa’s Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has stated that it needs expedited funding sources and is proposing a device-independent levy as well as preventing users from subscribing to streaming services like Netflix without a TV license.
Details
The SABC has argued in parliament that it can’t wait three years for South Africa’s parliament to develop a new funding model for the public broadcaster.
The three-year period is proposed in the latest draft of the SABC Bill.
Zoom In
Among the funding mechanisms called for by the SABC are a “device-independent levy”, the enlistment of the South African Revenue Service and MultiChoice Group for collecting these levies, and even preventing citizens from subscribing to streaming services like Netflix without a TV licence.
TV licences were one way in which the SABC generated revenue in the past, but shifts in technology and a reluctance by the public to pay have led to a decline in revenue.
What They’re Saying
“Funding for the SABC is a burning issue and therefore an interim mechanism is required to ensure SABC’s interim viability and sustainability while we develop the bill as well as a new funding model framework. This is critical, especially when it comes to the funding of the public interest mandate,” said SABC CEO Nomsa Chabeli.
“The SABC Bill should redefine what a TV licence is, and we are saying a public service media levy would be a good example, as found in Germany and other countries, he added.
Source: TechCentral
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