07/09/2023
7 September 2023
Statement on the Liquidation of Abundant Media and its Impact on the Community Radio Sector
The National Community Radio Forum (NCRF) expresses deep regret and concern over the recent liquidation of Abundant Media, an advertising agency in the community media industry. Founded in 1999, Abundant Media claims to have generated over 1 Billion Rand advertising revenue for community radio stations in South Africa during its operations.
However, as Abundant Media permanently closes its doors, we are faced with an unfortunate reality – the company's substantial debt burden on the community radio sector. Many of the radio stations that Abundant Media owes are now at risk of closure due to their inability to settle their Sentech fees for signal distribution, which is paramount in ensuring uninterrupted broadcast services.
The impact of this decision is real and could lead to significant crippling effects on community stations. Our communities, which have long relied on community radio stations as a critical platform for their own development, are now facing the grim possibility of being left without their voice. Losing this platform will have dire consequences for the empowerment and development of our communities.
We remain bewildered by what happened to the money paid to Abundant Media by commercial clients and government for advertising on our respective platforms. This situation may merit an investigation by relevant authorities. The NCRF further wishes to warn agencies that continue to rip the sector off by undermining the rate card of stations to desist from such practices.
We firmly believe that Abundant Media has a social and ethical responsibility to address their outstanding debts, ensuring that community radio stations are not unfairly burdened by their negligence. We call upon Abundant Media's directors to take immediate action to rectify this situation and alleviate the distress they have caused to the community radio sector.
Furthermore, we urge all stakeholders, including the government, regulatory bodies, and industry associations, to explore viable solutions to support the affected community radio stations during this challenging time. It is crucial that we work together to safeguard the long-term sustainability of community radio and protect the invaluable services they provide to our communities.
The NCRF extends its support and solidarity to the community radio stations impacted by this unfortunate event. We will actively engage with stakeholders, including Abundant Media, to seek a resolution that upholds the interests of our communities and ensures the continuity of community radio operations.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Thabang Pusoyabone
General Secretary
NCRF
078 804 1745
[email protected]
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About the National Community Radio Forum (NCRF):
The National Community Radio Forum (NCRF) is a collective voice representing community radio stations across South Africa. As an industry body, our primary mandate is to promote the sustainability, growth, and professionalism of community radio, ensuring it remains a vital platform for communication, development, and social change. Through advocacy, capacity building, and collaboration, we strive to support the interests and needs of our members, and ultimately, the communities they serve.
