The humble selection of channels from the SABC will begin to morph into a buffet later this year, reports Channel24, when the public broadcaster launches the first of fifteen new channels.

As part of the switchover to digital television, the SABC plans to create dedicated news, movie and sports channels. SABC Sports will be the first, launching in October.

This channel aims to deliver the best of sports, including all of Bafana Bafana’s local matches. It has also acquired the rights to air games from the NBA, the U.S.’ top basketball league. Starting with two matches aired each week, the coverage will expand so that by 2013 an entire NBA season will be broadcast on our sets.

24-hour movie, news and education channels are in the pipeline as well, with at least two additional spots on the dial catering to smaller communities.

Broadcasters e.tv and M-Net are also planning to expand their selection of channels, but neither have given any details.

The biggest stumbling block, though, remains the switch itself. South Africa is lagging far behind the world, including other African countries, in switching over. The initial deadline, November 2011, was missed and it is now hoped to happen in September.

By James Francis