More state advertising spend ‘would save community media’
The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) says the stand-off between Sentech and community radio stations could be resolved if the state commits to spending 30% of its advertising budget on community media outlets.
The Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) says the stand-off between Sentech and community radio stations could be resolved if the state commits to spending 30% of its advertising budget on community media outlets. Sentech, the state-owned signal distribution company, has switched off 15 community radio stations that are in arrears. These operators owed Sentech R33m for signal distribution services, the state said this week. This revenue shortfall could have a "negative effect in the legal and administrative functioning of Sentech". Communications Minister Nomvula Mokonyane planned to meet Sentech, the National Community Radio Forum (NCRF) and the MDDA on Friday to resolve the impasse. The NCRF’s website has also been suspended because of non-payment. MDDA acting chairman Musa Sishange said community radio stations could not afford to set up their own signal distribution infrastructure. The statutory development agency provides funding for these indebted stations, although a...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.