Sources have told me and I can exclusively spill, that TopTV is losing yet another TV channel, this time 1KZN (TopTV 187) which will no longer be available on On Digital Media's (ODM) TopTV from the end of November.
1KZN, the community TV station near Richards Bay which started broadcasting in July last year for the KwaZulu/Natal community and which TopTV quietly added to their bouquet in September last year, will no longer be seen on TopTV.
A year later than business relationship has fizzed out and is over with Urban Brew Studios which helped to get 1KZN from TopTV to DStv.
As DStv is adding 1KZN from 13 November as a community TV channel, it does not mean that 1KZN would simply have been available on both DStv and TopTV. 1KZN is jumping exclusively to DStv, according to my sources.
1KZN will henceforth be available on MultiChoice's DStv Premium, DStv Compact and DStv Lite bouquets on channel 261.
"This is indeed a milestone to be celebrated," says Themba Fakazi, the executive chairman of the 1KZNTV board, who makes no mention in a press statement that 1KZN is leaving TopTV.
"The inclusion on DStv also offers an exciting opportunity to reflect the diversity and inclusivity of the people of KwaZulu/Natal."
Edwin Mncwango, executive director says that "being on DStv gives 1KZN the unique opportunity to grow as a station and to provide the young and local talent in KwaZulu/Natal the national exposure they deserve."
"Except for better reception for local viewers, the inclusion of 1KZN on DStv allows people in other parts of the country with roots in KwaZulu/Natal to stay in touch with what's happening in their home province."
1KZN says that the community TV station's programming will remain aimed at and be created by the community of KwaZulu/Natal and will continue to remain relevant and local in focus. 1KZN will also continue to broadcast free-to-air in the Richards Bay area and the surrounding communities in the districts of iLembe, Uthungulu, Zululand and uMkhanyakude.
