Podcasts in South Africa may soon leave their “wild west” era behind as the government explores new regulations for digital media. The proposal is included in the Draft White Paper on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services and Online Safety, signaling a shift toward updating laws written long before platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and independent creators became mainstream.
According to Communications Minister Solly Malatsi, podcasts currently operate outside the scope of both the Electronic Communications Act and the authority of the country’s communications regulator. Lawmakers are now considering whether to close that gap.
If implemented, podcasts could be treated similarly to radio and TV, with formal regulatory oversight. While officials insist the move is not intended to stifle creative expression beyond constitutional limits, it could introduce content standards and complaint mechanisms.
This development follows years of parliamentary discussions about digital media regulation. South Africa’s Broadcasting Act dates back to 1999, and the Electronic Communications Act to 2005 — laws that predate the rise of streaming platforms and social media algorithms.
Self-regulation is still being considered, with models like the Press Council and Broadcasting Complaints Commission suggested as possible frameworks for podcasts. The proposed policy also includes provisions for major streaming platforms, potentially requiring licences, local content quotas, or contributions to a local content fund, highlighting South Africa’s determination to modernize its media landscape.
