Canal+ Finalizes $2bn Acquisition of MultiChoice

Canal+, a French media conglomerate, has completed its highly anticipated $2 billion takeover of MultiChoice Group, thereby solidifying its dominance in Africa’s pay TV market and creating a ‘global media and entertainment powerhouse.’

This deal, which establishes Canal+ as the largest shareholder of MultiChoice, brings together operations serving over 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries.

The transaction represents the largest undertaking by Canal+ to date and signifies a crucial step in its ambition to become a leading global media player.

MultiChoice, the parent company of DStv and GOtv, has successfully completed the takeover after securing regulatory approvals.
The company has reassured its customers that the merger will not impact existing services.

In a joint statement, the two groups confirmed that subscribers’ services will continue without interruption. “Will my DStv or GOtv service be affected? No. Services continue as normal,” the statement stressed.

It further stated that there will be no immediate changes to packages, pricing, or access, and that customer support, billing channels, and local branch operations will remain unchanged.

Maxime Saada, the long-serving Chief Executive of Canal+, will lead the new entity alongside MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela and David Mignot. Saada regarded the deal as a defining moment for both companies.

“Together, we will deliver more of what you love — African stories, world-class entertainment, and exciting innovations for the future,” he said.

Canal+, headquartered in France, operates across Europe, Africa, and Asia, with more than 25 million subscribers worldwide.

The company is recognized for premium sports, original films, documentaries, children’s programming, and international partnerships, including its film production arm, StudioCanal.

For millions of households across Africa, the merger signals continuity rather than disruption in the short term.

Subscribers will maintain their existing decoders, apps, and accounts, with Canal+ placing emphasis on bolstering content offerings and injecting further investment into African storytelling.

The integration of MultiChoice into Canal+ marks a watershed moment in Africa’s media landscape, solidifying the group’s position as a major player in both local and international entertainment.

Source: Graphic