SABC 'not concerned' about viewership following reed dance decision

The SABC's drive for more local content will see the national broadcaster provide live coverage of the traditional Zulu reed dance ceremony later this year. But the broadcaster says that it is not concerned about losing viewers over the decision.

Speaking to TMG Entertainment this week, SABC spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago confirmed that the broadcaster intends to cover the annual reed dance on its platforms for the first time in its history.

And although the decision is historic, Kganyago insists that the broadcaster is not concerned that it may affect viewership on its stations, saying that he believes people will tune-in.

"Why should we be concerned? We are not concerned. People will watch because we know that people want to watch content and events that are reflective of themselves and their heritage."

Kaizer said that the decision to broadcast the event, held in September, is not new and is merely a reflection of the SABC's strategy to increase local and traditional content on its platforms.

"This is not a new development. We have been saying for a very long time that we are committed to increasing the amount of local and traditional content on our platforms. We have always been committed to promoting South Africa's diverse culture and heritage and we wanted to do that by showcasing all of the traditional ceremonies in South Africa, not just the reed dance."

Kganyago added that broadcaster is aiming to increase its live coverage of these events and believes the reed dance will serve as a model of their coverage.

"Whether there is a live broadcast, at this stage will have to be looked at and determined, but the intention is there and we will try to show it,"  he added.