SABC signs deal with BBC

2003-01-31 18:41

Johannesburg - The South African Broadcasting Corporation's radio channels will get daily access to the British Broadcasting Corporation's news, according to an agreement signed in Johannesburg this week.

SABC chief executive Peter Matlare said at the signing ceremony: "The South Africa's public broadcaster is delighted with this consolidated partnership with the BBC."

The deal, which would also see the SABC gaining access to BBC's current affairs programmes, would lead to increased partnership and exchanges in radio broadcasting between the two organisations.

"The SABC is pleased that it can continue to bring its listeners news from around the world that is both credible and independent," Matlare said.

"The BBC will add to our already rich source of local news and current affairs and help us fulfil our commitment and obligation to the South African public to keep them well informed and up-to-date in a fast-changing world."

The BBC World Service broadcasts in 43 languages including English and was available on frequency modulation in more than 135 capital cities.

The BBC's broadcasting manager for Africa, Michel Lobelle, who was the co-signatory, said the BBC was looking forward to the deal being implemented.

"We have a long record of co-operation, including programme exchange, technical help and special events," he said.

"This new arrangement will allow all the SABC radio channels to access the BBC news offer as well as sports and other programming. We look forward to further widening this focused co-operation," Lobelle said.

- SAPA