Uyanda Siyotula

Media Fanatic! Don’t just live- leave a legacy!

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

SAVE THE DATE!
The Annual Public Service Media (PSM) Symposium is back!

This year, we're expanding the symposium into a two-day event, bringing together even more voices, ideas, and conversations on strengthening the PSM ecosystem in Southern Africa.

This year’s symposium is under the theme Strengthening public service media’s digital future and advocacy” and presents an opportunity to develop forward looking solutions to these challenges while reinforcing the role of PSM as a public good. Day one will focus on the challenges, reforms, sustainability, and governance issues affecting the SABC while day two will broaden the discussion to public media advocacy across Southern Africa, providing a platform for regional collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the exchange of best practices to strengthen PSM in the region.

More details on the programme, speakers, venue, and registration will be announced soon.
Stay tuned and mark your calendars, we look forward to welcoming you!

#PSMSymposium #SOSCoalition

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

The continued delay in officially gazetting the withdrawal of the SABC Bill poses a serious threat to the sustainability, independence, and integrity of the SABC. A delay in withdrawal inevitably results in a delay in amending the Bill while the SABC continues to function under severe financial constraints. As our national public broadcaster, the SABC plays a critical role in informing, educating, and empowering the public, especially underserved communities. It must remain free from political interference and protected from being used as a tool in political power struggles.

We urge the Speaker of the National Assembly to act in the public interest by formally gazetting the withdrawal of the Bill. The future of public broadcasting and the democratic right to access credible, independent information depends on it.

#HandsOffSABC #SOSCoalition #SABCBill

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

The SOS Coalition hosted a workshop today in Alexandra Township educating the public about the Broadcasting Digital Migration (BDM) process, particularly the ASO and the implications on people’s rights.

#SOSCoalition #ASO #SaveFreeTV

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

The SOS Coalition will be hosting a panel discussion titled “The Digital Future of Public Broadcasting in Africa – A Consultative Session on a Continental Policy Framework for Universal Access to Public Service Content in the Digital Age” at this year’s #DRIF25.

Aligned with the objectives of the ACHPR resolution and in consultation with the Special Rapporteur, the discussion aims to:
· Assist the Special Rapporteur by identifying and consulting African role players to assess their concept of public service content in current times and raising awareness on the need for an overhaul of traditional broadcasting policies.
· Identify essential focus areas to contribute towards developing a future-focused policy framework for universal access to public service content in Africa.

We look forward to your active participation in this important conversation.

#DRIF25 #SOSCoalition

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

As we commemorate Freedom Day and reflect on its significance, we asked our National Coordinator what freedom means to them, and here’s what they shared.

Watch the video and tell us: what does freedom mean to you?

#FreedomDay #SOSCoalition

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

An exciting day at Constitution Hill commemorating Human Rights Day! It was incredible connecting with all of you and reflecting on the importance of public broadcasting in upholding democracy.

We can't wait to continue the conversation, see you tomorrow!

#HumanRightsDay #PublicBroadcasting #SOSCoalition

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

🔴Live now

Follow the court proceedings here:

https://t.co/1pH49LdYbj

#SaveFreeTV

[William Bird @Billbobbird]

Exciting day today! @MediaMattersZA and @SOSCoalition in high court with @etv to stop @CommsZA and @PresidencyZA from cutting off millions of people & devastating @SABCNews follow @thandismith for live updates

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

The imminent analogue switch-off (ASO) on 31 March 2025 not only threatens approximately 4.3 million households that rely on analogue television but also poses a significant risk to public broadcasters. With the SABC already facing severe financial difficulties, this transition could further strain its resources.

On SABC News, our national coordinator, Uyanda Siyotula, weighed in on the importance of postponing the Analogue Switch-Off, not just for the millions of South Africans affected but also for the sustainability of public broadcasters.

Watch the interview here: https://t.co/Ou1IyvXMls

#SaveFreeTV #SOSinMedia

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

Despite months of coordinated advocacy by civil society highlighting the dangers of the SABC Bill, and the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies' eventual decision to withdraw it, the Speaker of Parliament is delaying acting upon the withdrawal.

We urge the Speaker to gazette the withdrawal of the SABC bill as per the Rules of the National Assembly.

#SOSCoalition #SABCBill

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

SOS published a Discussion Document in 2024 on Global Trends in Public Service Media (PSM). This document explores the key trends in ensuring sustainability, diversity, accessibility, accountability and relevance in PSM content and services.

To read more find the Discussion Document on our website: https://t.co/QPmrb9oKA5

#PSM #SOSCoalition

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

SOS is proud to be leading a panel discussion on the Sustainability of Public Service Media at ⁦⁦⁦@RealAWiM⁩ in Senegal. The session will be moderated by Lister Namumba and includes ⁦@USiyotula⁩ and ⁦@PhathiswaPM⁩

[William Bird @Billbobbird]

Piece by @SOSCoalition and @MediaMattersZA on the @SABCNews Bill. @SollyMalatsi @JustineLimLaw @PresidencyZA @dailymaverick https://t.co/18WmVyj4cd

[Thandi Smith @thandismith]

Statement on the latest developments regarding the #SABCbill - Minister in the Presidency is incorrect - the bill can be withdrawn. Read our full statement here: https://t.co/TsoatPtjcf
@MediaMattersZA @SOSCoalition @SAEditorsForum

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

30th Oct - 01st Nov

SOS was at the 20th African Investigative Journalism Conference held at Wits University where we engaged with different stakeholders and also facilitated a plane titled 'Bringing marginalised voices to the fore in investigations' with Yinka Olaito, Managing Editor, of Nigeria Grassroots News, where participants gained enhanced skills in effective storytelling in disability and inclusion reporting - what to look out for and how to build collaboration and partnerships for an inclusive society.

@AIJC_Conference #AIJC2024 #Journalism

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

19 - 23 October

SOS had the privilege of attending the International Roundtable on PSM hosted by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung in Senegal. The roundtable brought together experts from across the Africa and Europe to discuss key issues and opportunities on both continents!

[Moxii Africa @moxiiafrica]

Starting with Uyanda Siyotula from @soscoalition, talking about the sustainability of Public Service Media, specifically @SABCNews #MFF24

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

We are live! The SOS, @MediaMattersZA , and @SAEditorsForum team is now presenting why we think the SABC Bill should be withdrawn and re-drafted ✊

If you would like to add your voice to ours, sign our petition: https://t.co/0IMpy2t1ec

@Billbobbird @JustineLimLaw

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

Join us for a critical discussion on the state of public broadcasting in South Africa and how we can work together. Be part of the conversation that shapes the future.
RSVP: https://t.co/Xd7T0Klt2A

#PublicBroadcasting #SABC #JohannesburgEvents

[SOS Coalition @SOSCoalition]

🚨 The SABC is at a critical juncture
🚨 The future of public interest broadcasting in South Africa is uncertain
🚨 Will we be able to Save Free TV?

Join us on the 23rd of August for an essential and interactive engagement.

Save the date! More details to follow.