The programme just missed out on the overall number one position in the category, due to the popularity of the documentary, Concrete Jungle – Second Chance.

The SABC’s head of Children’s Content, Nokuthula Khumoetsile Msimang, was delighted with the news. “Hectic Nine-9 continues to remain relevant and fresh,” she said. “It has managed to find the perfect balance between keeping our young viewers informed and entertained at the same time. I’m sure it won’t be long before Hn9 manages to capture the number one spot. I’m looking forward to seeing the results for May.”

With international programs generally taking the lead when it comes to viewer numbers, it is gratifying for the team that there has been a steady increase in young viewers who switch over to Hectic Nine-9 each weekday between 16:00 and 17:00.

SABC commissioning editor, Mpumi Ngidi, believes that it’s the continuous addition of fresh and vibrant content within the programme that is the key to its success. “No two days are ever the same on Hectic,” she said. “From celebrating 20 years of Democracy with fun, fast-paced game shows to sending the presenters out into the wilds for another season of Survive-It, it’s all about giving the viewers what they want to see.”

Appealing to viewers is something that Hectic Nine-9 is doing very well lately, with its online numbers reflecting those of TV. Their Facebook page has over 275 000 fans, its website (which is currently being revamped) boasts more than 10 000 unique visitors a month and they have an active following of almost 55 000 on Twitter. The most exciting numbers for the team though are coming from Hectic’s Youtube Channel where viewers are enjoying the fact that content is available 24/7 and, in only a few short months, has managed to reach over 32 000 views.