Bring it home Bokke, urges Minister Zizi Kodwa

Sports Minister, Zizi Kodwa, has revealed that the SABC has paid almost R57 million ($3 million) for the broadcast rights to show all the Springboks games at the Rugby World Cup.

Speaking at a briefing in Tshwane today ahead of the much-anticipated tournament, Zizi reiterated that a more permanent solution is needed to ensure South Africans watch the country’s national teams on television.

“On Monday, I had a discussion with the Minister of Communications and met with senior executives of the SABC, urging the public broadcaster to find a solution to this impasse with MultiChoice.

“I had made it clear that my interest in this matter was for all South Africans to have access to a sport of national interest. All South Africans need to be able to watch our sports teams performing on international platforms.”

Minister Kodwa says MultiChoice has agreed to sub-license broadcast rights to the SABC for the tournament.

“This means that millions of South Africans will be able to watch this global showpiece and see the Springboks go on to defend their world title.”

MultiChoice, which owns the broadcasting rights for the tournament, asked the SABC to pay about R38m to sub-licence the rights.

The SABC had said they can’t afford it. However, at the last-minute, an agreement was struck between the two parties.

Kodwa’s good luck message

The Rugby World Cup, which will take place entirely in France, will kick off with a face-off between the host nation’s team and New Zealand’s All Blacks at Stade de France.

The reigning champions will open their campaign on Sunday against Scotland.

Minister Kodwa sent his well wishes to the Springboks.

“The Springboks represent the best of South Africa. They inspire national unity, and foster social cohesion and national identity. This was captured by President Nelson Mandela during the 1995 Rugby World Cup, where the Springboks were a key ingredient to his message of national unity.

“The current Springboks represent this country’s diversity, and represent South African excellence with their performances. On behalf of all South Africans, I would like to wish the Bokke all the best in the World Cup. Do you best and make us proud. Bring it back Bokke!”

I call for a permanent solution to the broadcast issues which prevent all South Africans from having access to sport of national interest @SportArtsCultur @SABCPortal @MultiChoiceGRP @SuperSportTV @Springboks #BokFriday pic.twitter.com/J4yG4Zmd4c

— Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture (@zizikodwa) September 8, 2023

[Read] Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Zizi Kodwa has wished the three-time world champions, the Springboks, well as they participate in the 2023 Rugby World Cup https://t.co/0ob0d0ACeg pic.twitter.com/jevkDrPM4G

— @SAgovnews (@SAgovnews) September 8, 2023

Minister ZiziKodwa held a media briefing today to find permanent solutions to the matter of broadcasting and MultiChoice has agreed to sub-licence broadcasting rights SABC for the 2023 Rugby World Cup. pic.twitter.com/h5BucYLhGT

— Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (@SportArtsCultur) September 8, 2023