EFF welcomes SABC's decision to play 90% local music on all its radio platforms

12 May 2016

The EFF welcomes the SABC’s decision to adopt a policy of playing 90% local music in its radio platforms. This decision is indeed long overdue in terms of the public broadcaster whose mandate is precisely to promote local cultural spirit of our people. This will lead to transformation of the cultural imperialism that our broadcasting platforms has subjected our people to. All countries that have pride, everywhere in the world, prioritise their local productions, from China to Europe, to USA and Nigeria.

We call on the SABC not to only implement this in relation only to the musical arts, but also television and films arts. The three television channels on free-to-air platforms must also commit to a 90% local film content, particularly as it relates to feature films. This will improve and affirm the booming local films industry. 

We further call on all other private radio and television broadcasters to follow the SABC example and promote local content. The reason and secrete behind the Chinese and Nigerian film and music boom on the international platforms, amidst the domineering US markets, is a deliberate prioritisation and promotion on the part of their own countries, of local content. If there is to be an Adel boom from South Africa, outside the USA, it is only possible through a deliberate promotion of local content. If we do not appreciate our local talent, it is close to impossible for the world to also appreciate it.

Issued by Mbuyiseni Quintin Ndlozi, National Spokesperson, EFF, 12 May 2016