By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa has called for a permanent solution to ongoing tug of war between the SABC and MutliChoice to broadcast Springboks matches.
Kodwa’s remarks come on the back of a sub-licencing agreement, which will see the public broadcaster show the Springbok’s games at the Rugby World Cup in France.
MultiChoice, which owns the broadcasting rights for the tournament, asked the SABC to pay about R38m to sub-licence the rights. The SABC baulked at the price, but a last-minute agreement was struck between the two parties.
Kodwa said there should be a permanent solution for future major sporting events.
“On Monday, I had a discussion with the Minister of Communications and met with senior executives of the SABC, urging the public broadcaster to find a solution to this impasse with MultiChoice.
“I had made it clear that my interest in this matter was for all South Africans to have access to a sport of national interest. All South Africans need to be able to watch our sports teams performing on international platforms.
“MultiChoice agreed to sub-license broadcast rights to the SABC for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. This means that millions of South Africans will be able to watch this global showpiece and see the Springboks go on to defend their world title.
“I reiterate my call for a permanent solution to be found, as we cannot find ourselves in this situation before major sporting events,” he added
The tournament gets underway on Friday night when hosts France face off against New Zealand’s All Blacks at Stade de France.
The reigning champions will open their campaign on Sunday against Scotland.
Kodwa also wished the Springboks well at the tournament.
“The Springboks represent the best of South Africa. They inspire national unity, and foster social cohesion and national identity. This was captured by President Nelson Mandela during the 1995 Rugby World Cup, where the Springboks were a key ingredient to his message of national unity.
“The current Springboks represent this country’s diversity, and represent South African excellence with their performances.
“On behalf of all South Africans, I would like to wish the Bokke all the best in the World Cup. Do you best and make us proud. Bring it back Bokke!”