Get Ready to Pay Up: SABC Demands TV Licence for Netflix and DStv Subscribers
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) is on a mission to revive its dwindling revenue streams, and it’s willing to go to great lengths to get what it wants. In a shocking move, the SABC has proposed that TV licences be imposed on all devices capable of receiving its content, including streaming services like Netflix and DStv.
According to SABC CEO Nomsa Chabeli, the corporation is facing a severe funding crisis, with only 55% of its revenue coming from advertising. To make up for the shortfall, the SABC is pushing for a "device-independent levy" that would be collected by the South African Revenue Service (Sars) and MultiChoice Group.
But that’s not all. The SABC is also suggesting that streaming services like Netflix and DStv be compelled to collect these levies on behalf of the public broadcaster. Under this proposal, subscribers could be forced to produce a TV licence before they can access their favourite shows.
The SABC’s proposal has sparked outrage among consumers, who are already struggling to make ends meet. "This is a blatant attempt to squeeze more money out of hardworking South Africans," said one frustrated viewer. "We’re already paying for our TV subscriptions, and now they want us to pay for the privilege of watching their content?"
But the SABC is undeterred. In a statement, the corporation said that the proposed levy is necessary to ensure its viability and sustainability. "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," said Chabeli.
The SABC’s proposal has sparked a heated debate about the future of public broadcasting in South Africa. While some argue that the corporation needs to find new ways to generate revenue, others believe that the proposed levy is a draconian measure that will only serve to further burden already struggling consumers.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: the SABC is willing to do whatever it takes to stay afloat, even if it means imposing new taxes on its viewers.
