The South African Communications Minister, Solly Malatsi, has stated that a decision regarding the switch-off of old analogue TV signals will be made well before the current 31 December 2024 deadline. Malatsi emphasised the importance of not causing unnecessary anxiety in the sector by delaying the decision.
However, the minister mentioned that no announcement has been made regarding the deadline for the switch-off of South Africa’s remaining analogue terrestrial television signals. Malatsi highlighted the need for an evidence-based assessment of the country’s readiness for the switch-off, considering the potential impact on households and broadcasters.
Malatsi expressed deep concern about the approximately 400,000 households that are still reliant on analogue TV, empathising with their situation and emphasising the responsibility to ensure that all South Africans are not left behind. He underscored the importance of ensuring that these households are digitally migrated and have access to the necessary equipment to receive the new digital TV signal.
The minister underscored his commitment to making decisions in the country’s best interest. He stressed the need for industry players to comply with deadlines. The switch-off of old analogue television transmitters marks the final step in a project over twenty years to migrate to newer, digital terrestrial TV technology, aiming to free up valuable radio frequency spectrum for mobile operators.
Additionally, broadcasters have raised legal challenges and concerns regarding the potential impact of the analogue switch-off. Both eMedia and the SABC have objected, citing possible negative effects on audience figures and advertising revenue. These broadcasters have also emphasised the need for further efforts to migrate households to digital TV before agreeing to the 31 December 2024 deadline.
Meanwhile, the SABC has issued a tender for constructing a satellite TV service to mitigate the potential impact of the analogue switch-off on its audiences.
It’s clear that the decision regarding the switch-off of old analogue TV signals is a complex issue, with various stakeholders expressing their concerns and considerations.
