SABC TV License: Why Many South Africans Skip Paying

Current Situation

• Less than 20 % of households pay the television license.
• SABC CEO Nomsa Chabeli told the Standing Committee on Public Accounts that license fees now fund only a small part of the broadcaster’s mandate.
• About 55 % of mandate costs come from decreasing license income.
• Commercial activities supply 83 % of revenue, while the license contributes just 13 %—a share that keeps falling.

Why People Don’t Pay

Nobuhle Dhlomo’s Perspective

• No longer watches traditional TV; prefers Netflix and other streaming services.
• Sees the license fee as outdated and says it offers no real value because her channels aren’t blocked whether she pays or not.

Parliamentary Example

• Chairperson Khusela Diko of the communications portfolio admitted owing over R10 000 in license fees.
• She finds the amount confusing given the annual fee is only R265.

Other Voices

• Some argue they already pay for DStv, which includes SABC channels, making an extra license unnecessary.
• Others cite simple lack of money as the reason for non‑payment.

Possible Changes Ahead

• Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Solly Malatsi commissioned Johannesburg‑based BMIT Knowledge Group in September 2025 to review funding models amid the SABC’s declining revenues.
• The firm has submitted its final report; the ministry is now consulting the SABC, National Treasury, and the Finance Minister.
• Recommendations may lead to amendments in the Broadcasting Act, aiming for a sustainable recapitalization plan.
• The process stresses that editorial independence will remain intact.

Conclusion

The SABC TV license system is struggling with low compliance as South Africans shift to streaming and on‑demand content. While advertising still fuels most of the broadcaster’s budget, the license fee continues to shrink. Ongoing reviews could replace the outdated model with a funding approach that matches today’s viewing habits, potentially easing the burden on households while securing the public broadcaster’s future.