On Tuesday, the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) officially announced the appointment of Lungile Binza as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective March 1, 2025.
This decision follows Binza’s tenure as Acting COO since February 2024, during which he demonstrated notable leadership and dedication to the SABC’s objectives.
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Driving technology and management
Before Acting as COO, Binza served as Group Executive of technology, where he spearheaded the broadcaster’s digital transformation strategy. His efforts focused on modernising the SABC’s technological infrastructure and enhancing its digital presence, positioning the SABC as a forward-thinking public broadcaster.
Binza’s background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Mathematical Statistics and advanced degrees in business administration and information systems. He is also currently finalising his PhD in Ethical Artificial Intelligence.
Strategic vision for the SABC
As COO, Binza will manage the SABC’s operational functions and ensure the delivery of high-quality broadcasting services to South Africa.
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His priorities include expanding the reach of SABC Plus, the corporation’s streaming service, and generating new digital revenue streams. He also aims to introduce operational efficiencies, optimise cost management, and modernise content offerings to meet audience demands across various platforms.
According to SABC spokesperson Mmoni Ngubane, the board is confident that Binza’s leadership will be instrumental in ensuring operational excellence. “His extensive expertise and visionary leadership have already driven innovation, and we expect him to continue positioning the SABC as a world-class broadcaster,” said Ngubane.
Binza stepped into the permanent COO role after the SABC dismissed former COO Ian Plaatjes in June 2024, who was suspended for failing to disclose a third-party advertising revenue share agreement related to SABC+.