08-05-2025
- Automotive
- The South African
SABC introduces 'car radio licence' - is it true?
An announcement that SABC is implementing a mandatory 'car radio licence' is making the rounds on social media – but how true is it?
In a press statement circulating on social media, the 'SABC' claimed that it was rolling out a car radio licence in an effort to 'generate revenue'. This comes amid a spike in streaming platforms like Netflix, and a decrease in viewers watching both the SABC and pay-per-view channels on DStv.
According to the statement, it quoted a section from the Telecommunications Act that claimed all motor vehicle owners were required to have car radio licences, regardless of whether they used them or not.
It stated that failure to pay the licence would result in a fine or 90 days in jail.
Needless to say, South Africans on social media were shocked – and fooled – at the supposed new claims.
@BafanaSurprise: 'This level of desperation by our government is really shocking. These People have mastered the art of milking the poor!'
@Pieterv32285001: 'This is ridiculous! I never listen to SABC radio- why should I pay for a license?'
@mehlulisizwe: 'Zimbabwe 2.0'
A quick search on X quickly revealed that the post went viral in 2023. At the time, the national broadcaster deemed it fake news.
The SABC again posted on its social media platforms: 'This is disinformation. The SABC is not considering implementing a car radio licence.
'This post is fabricated and does not reflect the policies, corporate plans, and values of the SABC.'
It added that licence systems remained limited to televisions, as stipulated in the Broadcasting Act 4 of 1999 and TV Licence Regulations (2004).
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