Siyaya TV finally open for business - after 'costly' delay

Siyaya TV is finally open for business after a three-month licence delay for the pay-TV newcomers.

Siyaya TV Consortium chair Dr Vuyo Mahlati said yesterday the delay was costly for the company as a new entrant.

Independent Communications Authority of South Africa spokesman Jubie Matlou said the regulator required outstanding information from Siyaya TV.

Siyaya TV won exclusive radio and TV rights to Bafana Bafana in a six-year broadcast deal worth over R1-billion.

The newcomers have free-to-air, pay TV, mobile and internet rights to all national football teams, including Bafana, the under-23 side and the women's teams.

A 24-hour television channel named Bafana Bafana TV will be launched as part of the agreement.

The broadcasters are expected to go on air in June next year.