Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi has confirmed that a new funding model for the struggling SABC has been submitted to the government
Image: Independent Media
Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi has confirmed that a new funding model for the struggling SABC has been submitted to the government, with several funding options now under consideration for legislative changes.
Malatsi appointed Johannesburg-based research firm BMIT Knowledge Group in September 2025 to develop the model amid the public broadcaster’s falling revenue and mounting financial challenges.
Malatsi revealed this in a written reply to Parliament after African National Congress (ANC) MP Shaik Imraan Subrathie asked whether the process had been delayed and what safeguards would be put in place to ensure long-term sustainability.
The minister said the appointed service provider met its extended deadline and that his department is now consulting the public broadcaster and National Treasury before a final funding option is chosen.
"The appointed service provider met the extended deadline to submit its final report and recommended funding model options. The Department is now engaging the SABC and National Treasury on the recommendations, followed by consultation with the Minister of Finance to enable government to consider and select the most appropriate option", the Minister said.
"In line with the Service Level Agreement, the service provider remains available to provide technical support during these consultations. The process is therefore proceeding as planned and is not delayed beyond the extended deadline".
Malatsi added that the funding model was developed by his department as the SABC’s shareholder and will be included in amendments to the Broadcasting Act.
"To ensure the sustainable, long-term recapitalisation of the SABC, the selection of the funding model from the service provider's recommendations will be made in consultation with the National Treasury and the Minister of Finance, as they are responsible for the national fiscus".
"Additionally, the Board of the entity remains responsible for the development and implementation of the Corporation's strategy to ensure its long-term sustainability. There are no intentions to interfere with editorial independence when the new funding model is introduced and the SABC will continue to maintain its editorial independence".
IOL Business
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za