Public broadcaster the SABC says it will play 90% local music across its 18 radio stations from Thursday, May 12.<\/p>\n
The move follows what the state-owned company says has been \u201cextensive\u201d engagements with music representatives.<\/p>\n
In choosing to play 90% local music, the SABC is also going beyond what is required of it by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa).<\/p>\n
In March this year, Icasa announced that holders of public sound-broadcasting service licences must play at least 60% South African music. Meanwhile, commercial stations are required to play a minimum of 35% South African music, according to Icasa.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur respective radio stations will not be confined to playing local music which is language specific,\u201d said SABC chief operations officer Hlaudi Motsoeneng in a news report on the broadcaster’s website.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want to come to a point where any of our 18 radio stations can become a home for all South Africans.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis cross-pollination of music is very important for the public service broadcaster, because part of our mandate is to reflect the South African story and music is an important part in ensuring that the SABC achieves this mandate,\u201d added Motsoeneng.<\/p>\n
The SABC has further reported that music played on its stations will consist of all genres, with a special focus Kwaito, Jazz, Reggae and Gospel.<\/p>\n
The SABC\u2019s website lists the following radio stations as among its properties:<\/p>\n
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