SABC 2 is stepping into a new chapter, and it is one rooted firmly in everyday South African life. From February 2026, the channel will roll out a refreshed schedule that puts local stories, familiar languages, and multi-generational viewing front and centre.
Announced as a New Era for the channel, the shift signals a move towards programming that feels emotionally relevant, culturally grounded, and reflective of how South Africans actually live, talk, cook, love, and connect.
For viewers across Nelson Mandela Bay and beyond, it is a reset that feels intentional rather than cosmetic.
What the New Era is about
According to SABC 2, the New Era is about confidence in its audience and clarity in purpose. The focus is on authentic storytelling, recognisable voices, and content that resonates across age groups without losing cultural depth.
Ahead of the full channel rollout on 9 February 2026, SABC 2 has revealed its first wave of programming, giving viewers an early look at what this refreshed identity will feel like on screen.
First wave of programming
Eintlik Let’s Connect at 16h30
An afternoon companion show built around real conversations, lifestyle topics, and everyday South African experiences.
Afrikaans Nuus at 18h30
The addition of Afrikaans Nuus reinforces the channel’s commitment to linguistic diversity, ensuring Afrikaans-speaking audiences are meaningfully represented within public broadcasting.
Ouma Sarie at 19h00
A familiar favourite returns to primetime, celebrating humour, tradition, and the relationships that anchor South African family life.
Deal or No Deal at 19h30
Hosted by Katlego Maboe, the iconic game show moves into a new primetime slot, bringing shared family viewing, anticipation, and excitement back to early evenings.
Pimville at 21h00
Positioned as the flagship show of the New Era, Pimville is a telenovela set in Soweto that explores ambition, resilience, love, and consequence through authentic township storytelling.
Colour Your Plate with KOO on Sundays at 19h00
The popular cooking competition returns with a fresh season, celebrating nutritious meals and South Africa’s diverse culinary heritage.
What comes next
This first wave marks only the beginning. More weekday and weekend programming will be announced at SABC 2’s Live in Every Beat: The Pulse of South Africa launch on 29 January 2026.
The refreshed SABC 2 schedule officially goes on air from 9 February 2026, setting the tone for a channel that is leaning into local relevance and shared national rhythms.
For viewers who want television that feels familiar, inclusive, and proudly South African, SABC 2’s New Era may be worth tuning in for.
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