The Story⚡
South Africa’s public broadcaster has announced that its free streaming platform now counts two million registered users, a figure reached less than two years after a major relaunch.
Tell Me More
SABC Plus is the over-the-top streaming service operated by the South African Broadcasting Corporation. It first launched in November 2022, offering live access to SABC’s three free-to-air television channels, 19 radio stations, and on-demand content. A full overhaul took place in July 2024, which included a refreshed interface, personalised recommendations, catch-up viewing, and dedicated mobile apps. This reset the user count, and the platform reached one million registered users by May 2025.
By mid-February 2026, the total stood at two million. Official figures show an average of 111 000 new registrations each month over the past nine months. In 2026 alone, more than 1.5 million people have used the service each month, watching nearly 200 million videos across more than 111 million viewing sessions and spending close to 87 million hours on the platform.
Growth has been driven by familiar SABC programming and live events. Popular local dramas such as Paradys (a multi-generational family story) and Pimville (set in Soweto and focusing on community resilience) sit alongside live sport, including Betway Premiership matches, Proteas women’s cricket, and regional tournaments. News coverage includes proceedings from commissions of inquiry and parliamentary sessions. The platform also carries partner channels such as BRICS TV Africa and educational material.
SABC chief operating officer Lungile Binza said the increase reflects the appeal of content that speaks directly to South African audiences. Interactive additions are planned to raise engagement further. These include gamification features under “SABC Plus Connect” that let users earn rewards for watching, and a partnership with Microsoft that provides free AI and digital-skills training modules on the platform. The aim is to support employability and help narrow the digital divide.
SABC Plus remains free to use after a one-time registration. It is available on the website sabc-plus.com and through apps on smartphones, tablets, and smart televisions. Some international viewers can access radio, news, and education streams, though certain programmes are restricted by rights agreements. In the broader South African streaming market, the platform competes with other local services such as eVOD, both of which have now passed two million registered users and are shifting attention toward deeper engagement and revenue from advertising.
The service forms part of the SABC’s wider digital strategy at a time when traditional television licence payments remain low, and viewing habits continue to move online. By focusing on local stories told in the country’s official languages, live sports, and accessible education, the platform extends the public broadcaster’s mandate into the mobile era.
In Summary
Reaching two million registered users with 1.5 million active monthly, SABC Plus has become a notable part of the shift to digital viewing in South Africa. With nearly 200 million videos watched and 87 million hours consumed so far this year, it delivers local stories, live sports, news, and learning opportunities to millions without any subscription fee.
Thanks for Reading.
Shockng.com covers the big creators and players in the African film/TV industry and how they do business.
Let’s be friends on Instagram @Shockafrica
