Canal+, the French media giant, has acquired MultiChoice for $2 billion, reshaping African broadcasting with new leadership and a commitment to local content.
Africa’s broadcast future just stepped onto the global stage. Canal+ has completed its $2 billion takeover of MultiChoice, Africa’s largest pay-TV giant, reshaping the continent’s media landscape with fresh leadership and promises of new investment in local storytelling and sports.
French media group Canal+ finalized its 35 billion rand ($2.02 billion) acquisition after winning approval from South African regulators, securing just over 48% of MultiChoice shares. The deal cements Canal+’s role as a continental powerhouse in pay-TV and streaming.
Within hours of clearance, Canal+ announced a revamped board to oversee MultiChoice. David Mignot and Nicolas Dandoy will lead Canal+ Africa, while outgoing MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela transitions to chair the African arm.
Former CFO Timothy Jacobs takes a top finance role, and shareholders will vote on additional leadership changes aimed at greater diversity.
Regulatory conditions ensure the deal safeguards South African interests. Canal+ must protect jobs for at least three years while investing heavily in local productions, original African programming, grassroots sports, and small businesses across the sector.
These commitments aim to keep African talent and stories at the heart of the company’s nearly 40 million-subscriber footprint across 70 countries.
Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada called the merger a leap toward building a “global media powerhouse,” blending international perspective with deeply African roots.
As streaming and mobile innovation accelerate, subscribers can expect more original content, sharper digital services, and stronger visibility for African voices on the world stage.
While enthusiasm is strong, questions remain about media pluralism and editorial independence. For Africa to truly benefit, Canal+ and MultiChoice must honor their pledges to protect diversity, nurture creators, and maintain audience trust.
This merger is more than corporate consolidation—it is a test of how Africa tells its stories to the world. The challenge is clear: Can this new broadcasting giant grow global without losing the authenticity of its local voice?
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