South African Minister Announces Resolution in SABC-MultiChoice Broadcast Standoff
Minister Kodwa celebrated this development and emphasized the need for a more permanent solution, stating, "We cannot find ourselves in this situation before major sporting events."
Cape Town, South Africa - South African Minister Zizi Kodwa announced today a breakthrough in the ongoing dispute between the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and MultiChoice regarding broadcast rights for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, writes Winston Mwale.
This development ensures access to the global sporting event for millions of South Africans.
Minister Kodwa expressed his deep concern earlier this week as negotiations between SABC and MultiChoice reached an impasse, threatening to deprive the nation of the Rugby World Cup.
The Minister stressed the importance of all South Africans having access to sports of national interest and urged a lasting solution to prevent such disputes before major sporting events.
In a positive turn of events, MultiChoice has now agreed to sub-license broadcast rights to the SABC for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
This agreement brings relief to sports enthusiasts and guarantees that the tournament will be viewable by a broad audience.
Minister Kodwa celebrated this development and emphasized the need for a more permanent solution, stating, "We cannot find ourselves in this situation before major sporting events."
Regarding the Rugby World Cup, which begins today, Minister Kodwa extended best wishes to the Springboks, the defending champions.
They will play their first game against Scotland on Sunday.
Zodwa commended the team for representing the diversity and excellence of South Africa and encouraged them to make the nation proud.
Shifting focus to another sports-related matter, the Minister announced that the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture will host a School Sports Indaba on September 14 and 15.
The event's goal is to establish a national sports program benchmarked against international standards for South African schools.
Over 30 organizations, including teacher unions, sports federations, and international bodies, will participate in discussions to shape the blueprint for South African school sports programs.
Minister Kodwa's announcement signifies a significant breakthrough in the ongoing discussions regarding sports broadcasting rights in South Africa and provides hope for continued access to major sporting events for the nation's citizens.