South Africa’s Digital Migration: A Two-Step Approach to Modernize Broadcasting

The South African government is committed to modernizing its broadcasting infrastructure and aiding stakeholders in recovering from economic challenges by implementing a two-step approach to its Broadcast Digital Migration program. This effort involves switching off analogue broadcasting and transitioning to digital technologies, known as digital migration.

The Two-Step Approach

The first phase of this approach involves immediately switching off analogue services above the 694MHz frequency band to free up spectrum for other telecommunications applications. The government has set a deadline of 31 July 2023 for this initial phase. In the second phase, high-population areas below the 694MHz frequency band will also experience a temporary switch-off, with a deadline of 31 December 2024.

Importance of Spectrum and High-Speed Telecommunication

Mondli Gungubele, Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, emphasized the importance of spectrum and high-speed telecommunication as essential enablers for the growth of the information and communications technology (ICT) sector. By implementing the analogue switch-off, South Africa can make way for next-generation technologies and encourage companies to invest in the industry.

Progress Made So Far

M-Net and the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) have already switched off their analogue sites in some provinces, and eTV has turned off 30 of its 84 analogue sites across the nation.

The Role of Set-Top Boxes (STBs)

The primary objective of digital migration is to clear the radio frequency spectrum occupied by broadcasters, thereby enabling the provision of wireless mobile broadband services and other innovative applications. Set-top boxes (STBs) or decoders will play a pivotal role in this transition, allowing free-to-air broadcasting services to move from analogue to digital television.

Subsidized STBs

Since the STBs registration process began in 2015, the government has received approximately 1.5 million applications for subsidized STBs. Late applications are also being considered, and the government has resolved to continue supporting those who registered after the 30 September 2022 deadline, ensuring no one is left behind during the migration process. Assistance for indigent households will continue until the country’s complete migration to digital television.

Public Awareness Initiatives

The government is committed to providing registered households with STB installations throughout the project, in accordance with the available budget. In addition, public awareness initiatives have been conducted via multiple platforms, aiming to inform South Africans of the digital migration process regardless of their location.

South Africa’s two-step approach to digital migration marks a significant milestone in the nation’s broadcasting landscape. By modernizing its infrastructure and transitioning to digital technologies, the country is poised to usher in a new era of innovation and opportunity within the ICT sector.