South Africa Welcomes Five Free Streaming Services Amidst Declining TV Viewership

In a striking shift from traditional television consumption, South African audiences are increasingly turning to online streaming platforms for their entertainment needs. As TV viewership dwindles, broadcasters such as the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), eMedia Holdings, MultiChoice, and the non-governmental organization Afriforum are harnessing the power of digital streaming to maintain audience engagement.

A significant trend emerges from recent figures released by the Market Research Foundation, indicating a downward trajectory in traditional TV viewership juxtaposed with a rise in streaming platform use. The year 2024 is set to mark a pivotal moment with the addition of Sentech's Freevision Play to the list of five free-to-access streaming services in the nation.

The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies has acknowledged the pressing challenge posed by international giants like Netflix and Spotify, recognizing the need for robust local streaming options. This acknowledgment comes as part of their annual performance plan for the 2024/25 period.

MultiChoice, for example, aims to attract audiences with a selection of free channels and on-demand content through DStv Stream, focusing on news, children’s programming, and sports. Similarly, eMedia’s eVOD provides free subscription tiers with a variety of programs, including popular telenovelas and eVOD Originals. Accessing these services is as simple as registering with an email or mobile number, bridging the gap between premium entertainment and viewers.

AfriforumTV entered the streaming realm in 2022, presenting a haven for Afrikaans reality TV, political and historical shows entirely advert-free. With resolution options ranging up to 1080p, AfriforumTV has paved the way for niche content in the streaming ecosystem.

SABC has responded to the digital transformation with SABC+, adding features like a user-friendly interface, personalized recommendations, offline viewing, and broad support for various smart TV platforms. This diversity in platforms indicates the national broadcaster’s dedication to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving market.

Sentech, the latest entrant with Freevision Play, offers six TV channels and local radio stations, emphasizing the importance of accessibility to quality content for all South Africans. As part of a project in the pipeline since 2013, the service underscores Sentech's commitment to leveraging broadband infrastructure for community benefit.

These free streaming services not only act as a lifeline for local content producers but also ensure that audiences across South Africa have access to a wide array of programming at no cost. As the country progresses into a more digitized landscape, these platforms are anticipated to play a crucial role in shaping the future of South African broadcasting.