Canal+ completes $2B acquisition of MultiChoice a seismic shift in African media that’s already reshaping the continent’s entertainment landscape. Finalized in early October 2025, the deal hands French media giant Canal+ full control of MultiChoice Group, the parent company of DStv, Showmax, and SuperSport, unlocking a subscriber base of over 40 million across 70 countries.
With a new leadership team, bold content investments, and a clear focus on African originals like Shaka iLembe and Spinners, Canal+ is signaling its intent: Africa is not just a market it’s the future of global storytelling.
Leadership Shakeup: New Faces, New Vision
The acquisition triggered immediate executive changes:
- David Mignot appointed CEO of Canal+ Africa and MultiChoice
- Nicolas Dandoy named CFO of the merged entity
- Calvo Mawela, former MultiChoice CEO, transitions to Chair of Canal+ Africa
Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada emphasized the importance of continuity and African representation, noting that over half the board remains African, addressing concerns about foreign influence.
“Our African operation has always been run by Africans. We’re here to amplify, not overwrite,” Saada stated.
Content Expansion: African Originals Take Center Stage
Canal+ is “doubling down” on African content, with plans to invest heavily in:
- Shaka iLembe – A historical drama about Zulu king Shaka, which drew 3.6 million viewers in its 2023 debut
- Spinners – A gritty South African series that made waves at Canneseries
- New co-productions across Nigeria, Kenya, Cameroon, and Senegal
Saada noted:
“The stories and talent are in Africa, but resources are often lacking. With world-class production, this content can shine globally.”
What This Means for Creators
For African filmmakers, producers, and writers, the merger opens new doors:
- Increased funding for local productions
- Global distribution via Canal+ and Showmax platforms
- Training and mentorship through Canal+’s creative incubators
- Creative autonomy with regional teams leading development
Canal+ confirmed it will not enter the local news market, focusing instead on entertainment and sports, easing concerns about editorial interference.
Strategic Moves: Market Expansion and Stability
To comply with South African regulations, MultiChoice created a locally controlled subsidiary called LicenceCo, ensuring broadcasting licenses remain in-country.
Canal+ plans to:
- List the merged entity on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange
- Maintain current subscription fees and channel lineups
- Continue investing in sports broadcasting rights, especially football and boxing
The merger complements Canal+’s existing footprint in 50 countries, expanding its reach without overlap and positioning it to rival Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime in Africa.
Final Thoughts: Africa’s Creative Future Just Got Louder
Canal+ completes $2B acquisition of MultiChoice and with it, a new era begins. For African creators, this is more than a corporate merger. It’s a chance to scale stories, amplify voices, and redefine what global entertainment looks like.
From Lagos to Douala, Nairobi to Johannesburg, the message is clear: Africa’s stories are ready for the world. And Canal+ is ready to tell them.
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