Minister comments on SABC board meeting

On Monday, 14 November 2011, the new minister of communications, Dina Pule, held an inaugural meeting with the SABC board to discuss the public broadcaster's progress on improving its performance, including progress on the implementation of the turnaround strategy and the government guarantee targets.

The minister stated the meeting was characterised by the frank way in which the performance challenges were analysed and how targets that have been set, may be reached.

Ministerial observations

It is making progress towards its recovery, although it still faces many challenges.
There are concerns about operational inefficiencies resulting in the loss of funds and this matter needs to be addressed urgently.
The board and executive management of the corporation must take their management and fiduciary responsibilities seriously. In particular, both parties must work on building a strong relationship based on mutual professional respect and trust.
The minister commits to helping the SABC unite for the good of the organisation and will support the board and executive management in achieving their goals.
It is vital that the positions of group CEO, COO and CFO are filled quickly to stabilise the organisation and this matter has been placed high on the agendas of both the board and the minister.
It will focus on commissioning local content in order to grow the South African industry further and help meet the future content requirements for digital terrestrial television.
The board needs to professionalise the organisation by implementing culture change and transformation programmes that will also boost workforce morale.

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