MultiChoice Zambia Dumps Camnet TV From The DStv And GOtv Platform

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MultiChoice Zambia is set to claim it's first victim by the end of January as a channel termination noticed has been sent to various consumers watching Camnet TV on channel 274. 

Camnet TV was launched back in 2017 alongside Prime TV on the platform and served as Christian based channel and was one of the few local channels on the platform with such genre. The channel was founded by Mrs. Pastor Victoria Chiluba who is married to the former president of Zambia, Frederick Chiluba.

Although the channel didn't have much controversy the founder embroiled in a scandal where she sought help from Hakainde Hichilema (Zambia's current president) in an attempt to save Camnet TV. And this was what prompted Camnet TV to lose credibility and also have a controversial history.

MultiChoice Zambia in a statement has attributed low viewership and possibly other strategic considerations regarding channel content and profitability. Camnet TV would basically be the third religious station to have gone off air on the platform and the second within this month.

A year ago, Emmanuel TV decided to exit various platforms across Africa after the channel's founder T.B. Joshua was involved in a sex trafficking/cult scandal. Prior to this, the founder was embroiled in numerous other scandals with one notable figure deeming him "the son of a devil".

Before that was ITV Networks, this was the only Islamic channel to have been distributed by MultiChoice in South Africa and also the only non-troublesome channel on the list. If anything, the channel's demise was part of an ongoing review between companies attempt to enhance viewer's offering. 

Could 1Max Be Over And Out On DStv As Canal+ Edges Closer To MultiChoice?

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Based on the Showmax streaming service, 1Max serves as a promotional window to various originals and international content from the streaming service alongside reruns from M-Net. Despite Comcast holding a 30% stake in Showmax, 1Max is handled entirely by MultiChoice/M-Net who serve as a majority shareholder.

Last year, MultiChoice and M-Net decided to do away with Me and 1Magic with their deaths that were partially exaggerated as the offering merged to form 1Max. This received very little buzz from MultiChoice even for a repeats channel they would have been some type of promotion but not in this case with 1Max.

Since then, speculation had been going around that 1Max could be done and dusted once or if Canal+ managed to complete it's acquisition of MultiChoice. Firstly, the French broadcaster doesn't like this idea of Showmax posing as a threat to DStv and has even hinted at the two serving as contenders.

What I think this could mean is that Showmax gets spun off amongst shareholders within MultiChoice. Rumours had been making the round that MultiChoice had considered dividing DStv and Showmax and this grew further to even suggest a potential sale in their assets particularly DStv.

If this does happen to be the case, it would put 1Max in a very precarious position as this is the lifeline for Compact+. Most other channels like Comedy Central, BBC Brit and Universal TV are already viewable on much lower bouquets and with its cancellation there wouldn't be much value on the package.

How The MultiChoice Acquisition Might Worsen Things For DStv?

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DStv serves as the largest entertainment entertainment platform in Africa by MultiChoice despite seeing a loss in consumers in recent years with its parent company undergoing a takeover by Canal+. It offers a variety of local and international content from Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery and BBC alongside the best in sports.

As reported in 2024, Canal+ is in the process of completing it's acquisition of MultiChoice with South African regulators. Should this deal move ahead, it would give the French broadcaster access to almost 50 million households with close to 30 million residing in Africa which would help them take on giants like Netflix.

Prior to the MultiChoice takeover, Canal+ already offered services in Europe through SPI International, Viaplay, Platforma Canal+ and the M7 Group with V+, VIU and Canal+ Myanmar residing in Asia. With Canal+ facing constraints in France viewed these markets as potential outlets for growth. 

Similar to MultiChoice, most of these properties listed served as start ups for Canal+ before being placed under French control. That was because Canal+ didn't have the expertise or necessary resources to compete in these markets so the other way would be through corporate buyouts or partnerships.

In Francophone Africa, a market in which Canal+ remains the dominant player very similar to DStv has very little to be desired. When it comes to France and Europe, Canal+ has plenty to compare with DStv but in Africa that is all on MultiChoice if Canal+ is dominant in one area it would be local content.

A tie-up with MultiChoice would make Canal+ a  dominant player and give them the scale as seen in France and parts of Europe. Canal+ has licensed numerous channels from DStv such as M-Net Movies, Africa Magic Epic and Zee World for these consumers in french markets and this transaction could lead to more content sharing.

As for DStv, there could be cuts when Disney+ was I  pre-development stages Disney didn't have much content for adults and the FOX acquisition gave them that. But things didn't improve for FOX as the Disney takeover led to numerous FOX channels across the world and studios to close.

On the DStv side, some outlets had stressed about that 20% cap put on foreigners even if Canal+ acquired MultiChoice it's voting rights in SA are minimal. Majority of MultiChoice's services come from South Africa and some fear that part of these services could as well be reduced if not closed even with a third party managing it's licenses.

If you look at Canada, a majority of MultiChoice's content providers are handled by local businesses Corus Entertainment manages Paramount Global with Bell Media handling Comcast. Channels that have still been exempted from this lineup in the region include MTV, Comedy Central, BET, Nicktoons, DreamWorks Channel and E!.

Corus through the Disney Channel has been importing Canadian shows while the global part is still Disney. This could be the case for DStv, where Canal+ the employee or as the stake in South Africa handles various licensing agreements while it's partner handles the financial aspect and whoever handles the finances has more power.

 

This is what happened when StarTimes acquired a 20% stake in TopTV (now StarSat) even though On Digital Media held the 80%, StarTimes decided who they should do business with. On Digital Media in this regard would turn down some businesses that wound up being licensed to other parts of Africa.

Another hurdle awaiting DStv with this takeover is consolidation, when Discovery acquired Warner it was very similar to Disney they were only cuts nothing new or beneficial came out of this deal. Even with their Max streaming service, what they did was use it as a promotional window for Discovery+.

This is where DStv could be heading, Canal+ curated local content in Francophone Africa and with this takeover they'll probably try to give that more exposure. MultiChoice had already done that with Africa Magic and SABC News so it only seems fair if the French implement similar mechanisms.

Who knows maybe this takeover will see M-Net curate and license more content from StudioCanal as this was outlined in the company's prospectus. 

The Eclipse Of Traditional TV: eMedia And MultiChoice Navigate The Streaming Tide

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With Comcast looking to offload its cable networks we turn our sites to both MultiChoice and eMedia Investments whose 2024 was somewhat dismal or dramatic at least for one of the two. MultiChoice ousted 11 channels while undergoing a takeover by Canal+ which is awaiting approval from South African regulators.

eMedia Investments has rounded another year with no additions despite promises to add a few more channels as Ultraview's future is being questioned after OUTtv and FUSE reverted to eVOD.

Let's face it, consumers don't prioritise TV as much in recent years as Netflix has become the hangout spot for shows like Squid Games and Wednesday. MultiChoice has been focused on everything from streaming, insurance and cybersecurity but saving the once dominant DStv platform.

Even the financially challenged SABC's top rated soaps are grasping through straws as their viewership continues to plummet. Uzalo that serves as the dominant player amongst the foe stood at 4.8 million in October 2024 which is a 21% drop from 6.1 million in October 2023.

This is the reason MultiChoice has been selective when it comes to sourcing content take for instance Zee Zonke. The only reason this channel was able to stay afloat is due to Zee TV's existing footprint in the market same goes for SuperSport Schools that established it's presence on YouTube as School Sports Live.

If anything things haven't been greener for eMedia's Ultraview offering as part of its offering had been merged with eVOD, consumers are curious on what's next for the brand. Since it's rollout, it was met with heavy criticism for its pricing and content offering while being compared to DStv so a majority are expecting for it to be dismantled.

When it was introduced, Eskom was going full force with power cuts although that withered DStv hasn't recovered and as for Ultraview it never had a fighting chance. Remember eMedia Investments hadn't disclosed consumer numbers for Ultraview but it's assumed to have under 500 subscribers.

In general, adding new channels has been more riskier in recent years MultiChoice had done that with One Freestate Televisual and NWTV which lasted for about 3 months. Even if the plan were to restructure, SABC has done that numerous times with SABC 3 and it still hasn't saved its fallen viewership.

Is MultiChoice Still Planning To Remove eToonz, eMovies, eMovies Extra And eExtra From DStv?

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As some of you may have already heard, eMedia Investments had settled things with MultiChoice regarding eToonz, eMovies, eMovies Extra and eExtra by September of last year. There was very little buzz or press from both parties particularly eMedia Investments that made several attempts to retain these channels.

This led to them even going through a 2 and a half year carriage battle with MultiChoice but this didn't end because one party decided to retain these channels but rather eMedia Investments realised the money wasted on legal fees was putting a damper in their money bin so where does this leave DStv consumers if you may ask.

Well as it stood, eMedia Investments' channels were slated to go dark on DStv by August 2024 as ongoing legal action is what prompted these 4 channels to stay onboard. The year is drawing to a close and if these channels are still seen on DStv we can only assume one of several outcomes.

Firstly an extension had been reached between both parties and MultiChoice had a change of heart as seen with the relaunch of WildEarth which some are prompting to the takeover by Canal+. Of course, the duration to such agreement, settlement, obligation or however they want to put it is what's keeping eMedia Investments quiet.

Could it be that these channels aren't out of the woods yet?

MultiChoice made a similar deal with the SABC back in 2017/8 that SABC Encore would be axed on their platforms by May 2020 and this was something neither party addressed when renewing their agreement. Maybe MultiChoice just gave these channels an extended vacation and are planning to remove them later.

This whole process could take months into 2025 maybe March which is when the current financial year period ends or May which would date back to when these channels were officially removed. In general, all I'm saying here is this agreement doesn't sit well with me why the secrecy particularly with eMedia Investments.

Maybe I'm wrong or partially and MultiChoice just looks into retaining a few channels on their platforms alongside e.tv and eNCA. But then again, Disney and BBC Studios had announced extensions to their contracts yet eMedia Investments doesn't and retaining them on DStv was a priority.

How Google Is Becoming Another DStv?

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Not long ago, I reported that Google blacklisted thousands of independent and small sites prioritising big brands, affiliate links and forums such as Quora and Reddit. Insidus forms part of those sites that were affected by Google's core updates but alas they don't owe us anything in the end.

Remember when eMedia Investments was fighting to retain their 4 Openview channels on DStv. Think of it like this we were eMedia we made several changes to try and enhance reader's experience but in the end MultiChoice who is Google haven't acknowledged these updates.

MultiChoice has stated in court that eMedia has Openview for those looking to watch Elif and Teletubbies but the reality revenue wise would lead a company to scale back on content. This is what happened in Insidus, although all keywords I ranked on were axed the only search queries are those linking back to our website.

Simple terms: User A would type "eExtra" or "SABC" then several pages from my website would come on now that's been reduced to the website name and link which BTW made up a fraction. While some users would discover a brand by name a majority rely on content which is what Google killed off.

When a user types "Bloedspoor eVOD" in the search engine the first thing to pop-up will be videos of Isitha: The Enemy and Kelders Van Gehieme. Although all three are distributed by the same company it has nothing to do with Bloedspoor.

Now the next results are very accurate with the search term but the problem this comes from social accounts two of which are mine but the reality how many Googlers will even click those links. There has been a talk amongst publishers about zero click results.

In recent months, Google has filled it's pages with ads, affiliate links and sponsored content that there has barely been much visibility for actual content outside Quora and Reddit. This is what consumers have felt about DStv's entertainment offering as MultiChoice cuts channels and continues inflating costs.

Similar to how various outlets had stated DStv is losing its prestige as Netflix banks on NFL and WWE with DAZN that acquired FIFA. Google is facing competition from ChatGPT and TikTok as these platforms have found simpler ways to distribute information and aren't clustered with ads.

Even X (Formerly Twitter) could be branded as off as a Google competitor as it's the top platform for micro blogging a sector which Google is destroying and following Musk's takeover offers monetisation features and Grok that would rival with AdSense and Gemini.

DStv's Linear Offering Reaches A Time Of Uncertainty

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For those who have been following DStv's journey through the year would have noticed the lack of additions so far there was only 1Max which substituted 1Magic. Then followed by Arise News for Southern Africa with further expansions of La Liga to DStv Access with Nickelodeon on DStv Compact but was 2024 really the year of DStv???

MultiChoice removed about 12 channels from their platforms most of which were local and now with the company looking to complete it's takeover by Canal+ by April 2025. Former Telkom CEO, Sipho Maseko is also in talks to join the transaction either in a managerial position or a shareholder.

There's been a lot of fear for sometime about Canal+'s next steps should this deal moves ahead one of which includes existing agreements with Disney, BBC and Warner Bros. Discovery. In France, Canal+ has lost exclusivity to the Disney Channels as the content integrate with Disney+ in 2025.

Another Canal+ already offers it's ROK channels on DStv with, Marodi TV, Zacu Entertainment and France24 that reside in Africa. With this transaction, wouldn't they want to give these brands more exposure within the African market as seen with Africa Magic and Mzansi Magic.

Speaking of Africa Magic, ROK has been rivalling with the broadcaster since it's inception in 2016 and Akwaaba Magic when it launched in Ghana by 2021. What is to become of these entities once Canal+ claims the crowns of supposed rivals does ROK become an import of the two as seen with Magic Showcase.

If DStv's matters doesn't worsen, Warner Bros. Discovery and Comcast are shifting away from their cable networks and we're only left with questions about what could be left of Discovery Family. If TLC and Discovery have been serving as imports for the bulk of channels ranging from HGTV, Investigation Discovery, Animal Planet and Food Network.

Then there's Telemundo, how is Comcast's upcoming spin-off going to retain the channel in Africa because the company has a history of discarding their cable networks e.g. Style Network. SpinCo has been the one calling the shots in Africa now this one will be not be affiliated with Comcast.

Comcast has NBC Studios, Universal Pictures, Telemundo Studios and DreamWorks Animation. From what I can recall, M-Net, SABC and eMedia Investments have been licensing select content for consumers in South Africa and this part has only been focused on these regional networks for  growth.

2025 could shape up one of DStv's most dramatic years as MultiChoice faces a lot of uncertainty not only with the arrivals of new owners but some corporate changes. It could be like analysts have said on various occasions MultiChoice will now unrecognizable in the coming years.

Important Notice: ROK Can Also Be Seen On DStv Family And Access Packages In South Africa Alongside WildEarth On Easyview

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MultiChoice has silently added the ROK channel to DStv Access customers after being made exclusive to Compact customers. The channel is owned by ROK Studios that serves as a division of Canal+ who is currently looking to acquire MultiChoice ahead of their split from Vivendi in the coming weeks and only time can tell what awaits Africa Magic.

ROK has become a profilic producer of original content with shows like Festac Town, Khutam, Banks Chronicles and Bloodline alongside Nollywood films like Man Pikin and Strings Of Love. Considering Africa Magic Family is viewable on Access in other African markets we can only assume ROK holds that position in South Africa.

Maybe it won't be over and out for the channel just yet it could as well be restructured into some repeats channel for imports from Africa Magic.

Another development comes from the Easyview package as WildEarth also forms part of their package after being exclusive from Access to Premium consumers. Some tabloids even marked WildEarth as a "new channel" when in reality it only counts if you're an Easyview consumer while others its seen as a relaunch.

Easyview consumers had already lost 4 channels within the year including People's Planet, NWTV, One Freestate Televisual and Emmanuel TV. If anything, WildEarth could as well be interpreted as a replacement to People's Planet as the channel in question had already been distributing content from WildEarth.

This would leave the higher paying consumers being Compact to the full library of children's shows as MultiChoice added Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. to their lineup. According to a statement, the launch on DStv Compact is there to help commemorate SpongeBob Squarepants' 25th anniversary. 

SURPRISE!!! Paramount Africa Is Making Nickelodeon And Nick Jr. Available To DStv Compact Customers In South Africa

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Get ready for a playful and fun festive season filled with joy, laughter, and one last 25th anniversary hurrah from SpongeBob SquarePants! From 6 December 2024, Nickelodeon (DStv 305) and Nick Jr. (DStv 307) will both be available on DStv Compact permanently, gifting more children and families across South Africa access to the very best in family entertainment.

 

As part of this exciting move, Nickelodeon, the number one entertainment brand for kids, invites everyone to celebrate SpongeBob SquarePants’ 25th anniversary with a festive extravaganza like no other. From exclusive new episodes and Nickelodeon favourites in isiZulu and Afrikaans to Zee Nxumalo’s Amapiano remix of the SpongeBob SquarePants theme-song! This holiday season promises something for everyone.

Nickelodeon (DStv channel 305) December Highlights

SpongeBob SquarePants Christmas Special – 21 December | Saturday at 12:30

The Loud House Christmas Special – 21 December | Saturday at 14:10

Young Dylan Christmas Special – 21 December |

Saturday at 18:30

The Patrick Star Show from 2–13 December at 15:00

Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles from 23 December, weekdays at 19:45 

Nick Jr. (DStv channel 307) December Highlights

Rubble & Crew (new episodes) from 02 December, Monday-Friday at 17:30

DORA (new episodes) from 09 December, Monday-Friday at 18:00

Nick Jr’s Holiday Stunt Premiere episodes: Paw Patrol, Rubble and Crew, Hamsters of Hamsterdale, The Adventures of Paddington, The Tiny Chef Show from 21 December at 12:00

Nick in Your Language Continues to Shine

Nickelodeon’s commitment to inclusivity continues with the Nick in Your Language initiative, offering local language episodes of beloved shows like SpongeBob SquarePants, DORA, Rubble & Crew, Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and PAW Patrol in local languages. Catch these dubbed favourites on Nicktoons (DStv channel 308), weekday mornings at 7:30–9:00, and afternoons at 15:00–16:00. 

January 2025: Start the New Year with Nickelodeon and Nick Jr.!

  

Transformers: EarthSpark S3 (new season) on 11 January at 11:00 on Nickelodeon (DStv channel 305), Baby Shark’s Big Movie! 5 January at 12:20 on Nick Jr. (DStv channel 307), Baby Shark’s Big Show S3 (new season), weekdays at 16:30 on Nick Jr. (DStv channel 307), starts 6 January. 

Dance in to the holidays with SpongeBob and Zee Nxumalo

To make this holiday season even more exciting, Nickelodeon has partnered with Amapiano sensation Zee Nxumalo for a special Amapiano remix of the SpongeBob SquarePants theme song, soon to be available on Spotify. Fans can join the #DanceLikeASpongeChallenge on TikTok and be part of the fun.

Follow @Nickelodeon_Africa for more information.

“At Nickelodeon we put kids first and we believe in the power of fun to bring families together. What better time to celebrate fun than during the holidays? As we mark SpongeBob SquarePants’ 25th anniversary, we’re thrilled that Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. content is now accessible to even more families, solidifying our mission to provide inclusive, world-class entertainment.” says Monde Twala, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Paramount Africa.

 

“We’re thrilled to make Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. available to DStv Compact viewers,” says Melusi Sibisi; Acting Head of 3rd Party Channels and Partnerships for the Multichoice Group. “This move underscores our commitment to ensuring that more families across South Africa have access to premium kids’ entertainment. With Nickelodeon’s rich line-up and beloved characters, this holiday season will undoubtedly be one to remember.”

 

This holiday season, Nickelodeon promises a Nicktastic Festive! Soak up the fun! Join SpongeBob, Patrick, the Ninja Turtles, and more as they bring endless joy and adventure to your screens.

Why Disney Channel's Move To Channel 315 Is Bad News For DStv Customers?

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During the month, MultiChoice Africa announced that Disney Channel would be moving from channel 303 to 315 on DStv and these changes were applicable to consumers in Southern Africa. This is most likely due to a change in legislation in some countries if some remember Cameroon and Uganda instilled some very rules over LGBTQ.

This is what prompted Nurses to suddenly get yanked from Telemundo only for it to make a name a comeback with censorship. The laws in these countries were so severe that broadcasters like Telemundo would have lost their licenses to operate in these regions while some could be fined or detained.

MultiChoice may say that Disney Channel had moved to a new channel number and that consumer's viewing experience would remain unhinged. But that's not the case here at all, they took what you know as channel 303 and restricted it's access to consumers in South Africa where the restrictions are lighter.

They acquired Disney Channel's feed used in the East and Western parts of Africa and launched that on channel 315. For those who aren't aware, MultiChoice has two transponders one that covers Southern Africa and another the rest of Africa so they can basically make local variations with channels.

Considering South Africa shares their feeds with other countries residing within Southern Africa including Malawi and Zimbabwe they had to launch duplicate feed but block certain consumers from particular regions from seeing it. Similar to what you have with Moja 9.9. as consumers would have viewed the content on its premium counterpart.

Similar to TLC Africa, this feed viewed outside of South Africa is kind of depressing remember Marvel's Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur the show that DStv had advertised across their platforms for viewers in Africa for November 25. This managed to debut on the channel in South Africa alongside various European markets.

This has not been made available to consumers outside of South Africa and I would like to believe that MultiChoice Africa and Disney will try to air it at a later stage but heck even Walk The Prank is not airing. Instead in the slots where these shows would appear would be reserved for more Big City Greens or Phineas And Ferb. 

Disney Channel's moves to channel 315 as MultiChoice Africa wants to put it or the expansion of Disney Channel Africa which is what I'd call it is bad news for DStv consumers. Imagine this scenario already happened with Nickelodeon and The Loud House after Nigeria put up a ban Paramount opted to censor the show.

But when further complaints came from other African countries they took out The Loud House completely yet they're willing to air it's live-action counterpart and The Casagrandes. To top it off, Paramount+'s original film The Loud House: No Time To Spy wasn't made available for these consumers.

The results to these restrictions is more zombie TV which is what's seen on Nickelodeon and TLC with Disney Channel joining the ranks.

Despite the tight restrictions, there are consumers in these markets that wouldn't mind watching Marvel's Moon Girl And Devil Dinosaur or The Loud House despite them featuring same sex couples. Disney Channel separating it's operations within in Africa means more content is likely to be divided away from Africa like Andi Mack and The Owl House.

eMedia Investments And MultiChoice Silently Settle Dispute Over e.TV's 4 Channels On DStv

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As some readers may have remembered from the last time we had posted eMedia Investments' 4 TV channels namely eExtra, eMovies, eMovies Extra and eToonz were all slated to be removed from DStv by August 2024. Several months had already passed and these channels continue to distributed on DStv.

MultiChoice made the decision by March 2022 that they didn't want to include these channels on any of their platforms which led to the discontinuation of e.tv's African feed eAfrica. At the time, eMedia Investments had stated that they're changing their distribution strategy for these consumers while in South Africa they took the matter to court.

According to MultiChoice, eMedia Investments 4 TV channels had a lot of duplicate content and also the matter of transponder constraints led to the decision to terminate these services. The free-to-air broadcaster stated otherwise as they showed 2 out of the 4 channels had local content and that MultiChoice had plenty of space for more channels.

To top it off, MultiChoice forged ahead and allocated several placeholders on each DStv package: Movie Room (Access), DreamWorks (Compact), PBS KIDS (discontinued, Easyview) and KIX (Access). They even ramped up a rival offering to eExtra's Kuiertyd with the addition of Turkish dramas on KykNet & Kie.

In the financial year results ending 30 September of this year, eMedia Investments had confirmed that they've reached a settlement with MultiChoice after two and a half years. This means eExtra, eToonz, eMovies and eMovies Extra will remain on DStv but what's odd about this is the lack of engagement by both parties.

eMedia Investments didn't want these channels removed now they're getting what they asked for but still you'd think they'd be a celebratory mood. But questions amount to what prompted MultiChoice to suddenly join hands as eMedia Investments mentioned paying significant costs in legal fees.

In a couple of days, MultiChoice will be reinstating WildEarth to their platforms which served as one of the 12 TV channels to exit the company's platforms in the year. If one had to guess maybe the transaction to have Sanlam acquire majority stake in NMIS Insurance Services helped them build up their capital.

Another could as well be the onslaught of TV channels to have exited their platforms during the year with One Freestate Televisual, NWTV and People's Planet being based in South Africa. Maybe eMedia's 4 channels are being used as leverage for the fallen either that or the drastic takeover by Canal+ which is awaiting approval.

WildEarth Relaunches On MultiChoice's DStv From Sunday, 1st December

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WildEarth, often referred to as the biggest safari vehicle in the world brings viewers closer to nature on an African safari like no other. Following constructive discussions since the channel left the DStv platform earlier this year, WildEarth will resume broadcasting on 1 December 2024 on DStv channel 183.

Andre Crawford-Brunt, chair of WildEarth, acknowledges, "We are thrilled to be back on DStv. Our transition from MultiChoice was deeply emotional for everyone involved, reflecting the genuine passion and dedication we all feel toward bringing wildlife into people’s homes. In the heat of this change, there were moments when things were said that, in hindsight, would have been better handled privately. In this regard I express regret and thank MultiChoice for the willingness to re-engage and find a way forward. Our shared vision for connecting people with nature remains, and we look forward to exploring new ways to bring this vision to life.”

Calvo Mawela, CEO of MultiChoice Group, stated, "We’re pleased to have WildEarth back. Local, African-centred content has always been a focus of MultiChoice, and the unique programming on WildEarth is one of the ways we’re fulfilling our priority of delivering the best and most inspiring local entertainment to our customers.”

Just in time for the December holidays, the channel’s return is a win for DStv subscribers – especially nature lovers and their families, who can go on a never-ending safari, exploring the beauty and mercilessness of the African wilderness, without leaving their home. For new and longtime DStv customers alike, this channel offers an authentic, unscripted experience where nature never disappoints. It’s the world’s best unscripted drama – not a documentary, but a true “what you see is what you get” journey into the wild.

WildEarth will be available on DStv Channel 183 from 01 December 2024 on all DStv packages.

How Comcast Plans To Ditch Several NBCUniversal Channels Affects DStv?

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MultiChoice currently supplies channels like Universal TV, E!, Telemundo, Studio Universal, DreamWorks, CNBC and MSNBC from NBCUniversal. As reported, NBCUniversal's parent company Comcast is planning to ditch these channels and make them into a separate company.

Similar to how Naspers dumped MultiChoice and Irdeto now that is being eyed by French broadcaster Canal+. The same potential owner is also being abandoned by its parent company with some of its shareholders joining the spin off and what do all these entities have in common - TV channels.

There are some former DStv customers celebrating right now that more people will likely abandon the platform if these channels ceased to exist when this plans enter fruition. But this is a bad thing yes some would prefer Wednesday or Squid Games on Netflix but there's plenty of people that are still in it for DStv particularly these channels.

Now that Comcast from the looks of things are dumping NBCUniversal probably even Sky Group as majority of their existence centers on these channels. Questions amount to how E! and DreamWorks will survive such in a transaction even Telemundo are their existence centred on originality.

E! has been winding down it's operations in parts of Europe and I can imagine various shareholders in this spun off company looking to simplify it's operations. Then there's DreamWorks even if the plan was to retain the channel it would look unrecognizable in the coming years relying on imports.

Sure Cartoon Network has been doing this for several years but a majority would expect 100% DreamWorks from its own channel. I expect once this spinoff happens for brands like DreamWorks to undergo a name change. This is what happened when Disney acquired FOX they didn't own the trademark like they did it's studios and channels.

Presuming DreamWorks will morph into Universal Kids but then again it all depends on what the higher ups decide at this point I can imagine them looking to simplify their operations. E! has closed down in the UK and parts of Europe more could follow maybe Telemundo as they prioritize other brands.

MultiChoice had already dealt with such a blow from Disney after it closed FOX, FOX Life and Disney XD. None of these brands were replaced leaving an empty void on top of the recent bloodbath of Me as it merged with 1Magic to form a premium channel known as 1Max, we could just be dealing with even less content.

Comcast Plans Massive Cable Spin-Off, Separating USA, MSNBC and More From NBC, Theme Parks

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Comcast is planning to spin off most of its cable television networks, including MSNBC and CNBC, into a separate publicly traded company, according to executives with knowledge of the plan.

The spinoff is expected to be formally announced on Wednesday. The Wall Street Journal, which first reported the impending announcement on Tuesday evening, said the involved channels also include USA, Oxygen, E!, Syfy and Golf Channel.

Comcast’s NBCUniversal division is keeping Bravo, the NBC broadcast network, the Peacock streaming service, and all of its other assets, like NBC Sports and the Universal theme parks.

The separate cable channel company will have the same sort of ownership structure as Comcast, but will have its own management team, led by NBCUniversal Media Group chairman Mark Lazarus, who will become CEO of the new venture.

While observers may view the spinoff as an attempt to shed cable channels that are losing value in the streaming age, the channels still contribute strong profits to Comcast’s bottom line. The company’s executives are expected to portray the spinoff as a growth opportunity for an industry in transition, with an eye toward acquiring other channels in the future.

Of course, the standalone cable network venture could also attract buyers as well as sellers. Wall Street analysts are predicting further consolidation of major media companies in the years ahead.

Comcast president Mike Cavanaugh foreshadowed the spinoff during a conference call with investors last month. He said the company was going to study whether it was a good idea to create “a new well-capitalized company that would go to our shareholders” comprised of “our cable portfolio networks.”

The study evidently did not take long.

Craig Moffett, an analyst with MoffettNathanson, told Variety that “investors have yearned for exactly this, or at least something close to it, for years.”

Notably, the spinoff will cleave MSNBC and CNBC, two profitable parts of the NBCUniversal News Group, away from the core news-gathering operation of NBC News. In recent years NBC has tried to bring its broadcast and cable news operations closer together. Now they may be peeled back apart.

WildEarth Might Be Looking To Relaunch On DStv Before The End Of November

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During the week, it was reported that MultiChoice might be looking to relaunch a former channel to the DStv platform after removing it alongside 11 other channels during the year. The company has been in pursuits by the French broadcaster Canal+ whose parent company Vivendi is looking to divest from the brand.

Canal+ also offers services in Africa particularly francophone regions where WildEarth is being distributed on those platforms in a separate agreement. Other brands such as Telemundo, Africa Magic Epic, SuperSport La Liga and M-Net Movies 3 and 4 form part of an add-on known as DStv English.

Based on some recent sitings, it appears MultiChoice is looking to add WildEarth to the platform before the end of November as several promotional banners had popped up all of which are slated for the month. We can only assume that they'll be an announcement about the relaunch in the coming days or so.

It wouldn't even surprise me if MultiChoice just placed WildEarth on its channel number and made the announcement on the day it went live. 

This looks to be an exciting development for those who watched the channel but for the rest of the media we're only left with questions. Firstly, why would MultiChoice engage with a company that slandered them on multiple platforms after failing to secure funds to continue packaging the channel through DStv.

Now we're just expected to see all of this unfold without any clear answers on the matter I can only assume that MultiChoice is paying for the carriage of WildEarth. With the brand also offering a streaming hub on YouTube I can only assume with DStv they're probably turn the channel into a promotional window.

Development Alert: WildEarth To Relaunch On MultiChoice's DStv???

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During the year, MultiChoice removed a total of 12 channels as the board tries to finalize the pending takeover by Canal+ with local regulators. Some channels to have been removed include One Freestate Televisual, NWTV, People's Weather (now People's Planet) with Me and 1Magic that merged to form 1Max.

WildEarth which formed part of the dozen TV channels to have exited the pay-tv company opted to dissolve themselves from the platform after failing to come into an agreement with MultiChoice. The wildlife channel was facing financial constraints and entered a deal with the company where they could pay for the channel.

After MultiChoice was declared technically insolvent they couldn't keep up to their end of the deal leading to WildEarth's dismal from the platform. Since then, WildEarth continued its operations in the UK and other parts of the world with SafariLIVE distributed on People's Planet.

WildEarth also offers a YouTube subscription similar to the current structure of DStv where consumers are required to pay a fee to get additional content alongside the ad free version.

Now it appears MultiChoice may be looking to reinstate WildEarth as several consumers by had already spotted the feed for the channel on our decoders. We can only assume that MultiChoice might have managed to get their finances in order and could as well look to reinstate another channel e.g. One Freestate Televisual.

Another may be the pending takeover by Canal+, WildEarth serves as one of the various TV channels from DStv distributed by the broadcaster in Ethiopia and other parts of Africa. Other channels on their platform include M-Net Movies 3 and 4, Africa Magic Epic, Studio Universal and Star Life, and part of this had to with its stake in the company. 

If this deal is finalised, we can only assume that the French would want to align/consolidate their content with that of MultiChoice cause with them acquiring they'll obviously want to wind down on expenses. Usually these cuts come from the acquired company with Canal+ that will substitute these cuts with their own endeavours.

As for WildEarth, I can only assume they'll announce something in the coming weeks if not sooner. It is expected to be available on the same packages it was on when it was removed and this includes DStv Premium, Compact+, Compact, Family and Access consumers on channel 183.

How SABC's Proposal To Let MultiChoice Collect TV Licence Affects DStv?

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For several years, SABC has been working on a turnaround plan as the company remains technically insolvent one of which the collection of TV licenses through a pay-tv company. MultiChoice remains firm in their decision to prevent such massacre from moving ahead as it would lead to dire consequences for the average DStv consumer.

What prompted SABC to rely on MultiChoice for disposable income is simple as they already make a half a billion in advertising revenue with 4 channels alone compared to eMedia's R140+ million figure. They also have the watched channels not only in South Africa but to DStv consumers.

Even though these channels do add some value to the average DStv consumer MultiChoice created the platform particularly for those hoping to view content from another perspective. Even though Mzansi Magic is lagging behind SABC 1 in numbers, they could as well be at an advantage point if you had to divide those numbers amongst packages.

On the basis of TV license, if the government were to approve plans of enforcing TV licenses to a platform like DStv as mentioned this will lead to dire consequences not only to the average DStv consumer but MultiChoice.

As we've seen in recent years, MultiChoice continues to bleed in DStv consumers as subscriber numbers had dropped to under 8 million subscribers and enforcing this would lead to additional fees. A lot of DStv consumers had been complaining about the rates and these fees will lead another drop and probably destroy the whole DStv structure.

MultiChoice trying to balance DStv and SABC paying consumers will likely have to cutback on content and lose out on potential revenue if it means retaining their consumers. The public broadcaster had stated that the current rates of TV licenses have yet to be adjusted so whose to say that this may not lead to the closure of certain DStv packages.

One of those reasons MultiChoice proposed a household levy in which SARS will take responsibility. But then again this wouldn't help DStv as the average taxpayer will most definitely want to wind down on expenses and who better than DStv as some have stated we pay DStv which carries SABC so there's your TV licence. 

But this is due to the mangled must-carry regulations which hasn't benefited SABC on a fundamental level but to a consumer's standpoint.

MultiChoice Teasing Something Regarding To M-Net 101 And SuperSport For DStv Compact Consumers

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As some users had already seen on DStv's social platforms, the pay-tv platform had begun teasing something new for their Compact consumers in November using the hashtag #GetMoreWithDStv. If you look at the teaser below Dune: Prophecy and HBO's Penguin has been spotted alongside SA Cricket.

Kukhulu this November on DStv Compact. 🤩 Stay Connected to #GetMoreWithDStv. 🎁 pic.twitter.com/GaYcvuAyW7

— DStv (@DStv) October 21, 2024

After MultiChoice and M-Net decided to axe/merge both Me and 1Magic to form 1Max consumers on Compact have been left with no alternative options to access the content on DStv. This has led to an onslaught of angry consumers wondering how they'll view content like The Block or Why Women Kill.

With M-Net likely being spotted in this promo, we could only assume that MultiChoice is giving Compact consumers an open window to the channel (if not permanent) as Dune: Prophecy is slated to rollout on the channel in that month. Another would be a possible extension of M-Net's Open Time which takes up half an hour on the platform.

Like we mentioned, MultiChoice had axed Me and I get it all the focus is going to Showmax and Netflix controls how you view TV but DStv still has competition i.e. Openview. Despite offering older seasons to shows like The Voice and 9-1-1, this is currently the only other way DStv consumers without Showmax can access the content.

So why pay for something others can get for free??? All in all this teaser involves M-Net 101

As for SA Cricket, this is something MultiChoice televises on SuperSport Cricket or SuperSport Variety 2 so I can only assume one of the two are going to DStv Compact likely Variety. MultiChoice Africa had merged what we know as Variety 2 onto SuperSport Action during the month.

Then again, SuperSport La Liga is scheduled to air 1 rebroadcast of SA Cricket so I doubt it's that especially with the amount of publicity they're giving this promotion. It would have to be something more meaningful and what better way then the possible extension of Variety 2 to DStv Compact.

Interesting to note, Disney Channel is also said to be undergoing changes in the month of November similar to that of TLC and Nickelodeon. This saw the feed within South Africa divided from MultiChoice's operations in other countries it's what led to a delay in Disney Channel's November highlights in parts of Europe.

Rumour: "Disney Channel Africa" Might Be Rolling Out On DStv Very Soon, Here's Why

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As readers have been made aware, TLC Africa was launched on channel 125 for consumers in Southern Africa (not South Africa) after being made available in West and Eastern parts of Africa. This left the main TLC brand on channel 135 to offer a broader range of content such as the transgender reality show I Am Jazz.

Now it appears as if Disney Channel might be also be going under the knife as a duplicate channel had been spotted on the iPlate section. This is where MultiChoice tests out potential DStv channels or upgrades an existing service and of course this version of the channel has slight variations.

Take for instance, Miraculous: Tales Of Ladybug And Catnoir and Big City Greens those are currently in their first seasons while the current feed viewed by consumers are on much later seasons. Monsters At Work and Jessie are currently on the network while this feed has supplemented those with Amphibia and Lab Rats: Elite Force.

If I one had to guess, MultiChoice is probably to separate the operations for these brands as seen with Nickelodeon, M-Net and not long ago. Best case scenario is that this channel will probably be referred to as Disney Channel Africa and occupy channel 313 while the main feed for SA consumers resides on channel 303.

I think the only thing here that has yet to answered is which feed MultiChoice has in development the one I presume will occupy channel 313 or perhaps takeover channel 303. As mentioned, it offers a program like Gravity Falls something that was banned in some parts of Africa of course the channel doesn't have a full schedule.

From the looks of it, this feed will probably takeover whatever is left of channel 303 from 1st November as no EPG had been provided for the channel unlike Disney Junior. Another scenario here is that they're probably going to move channel 303 to 313 for neighbouring countries while introducing this feed on channel 303 in South Africa.

How DStv Easyview Tries To Compete With Openview When It Comes To Sports?

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Despite MultiChoice attempts to lure consumers to their most cheapest package this has proven to challenging as Openview has over 20 channels which incorporate telenovelas, movies, reality shows and drama series. Easyview is still reliant on provincial and news brands despite the inclusion of TNT and Real Time.

One of the main factors that drive people away from Easyview would be sports as eMedia Investments distribute SABC Sport on Openview and all Easyview has got is Blitz their news channel. One could as well establish that Blitz is superior for its news coverage for which SABC Sport lacks but from a consumers perspective live sports is a necessity.

Openview draws over 3 million households of course when it comes to viewership particularly sports it is estimated to reach 50000-100000 viewers and although MultiChoice hasn't mentioned Easyview consumer numbers their lower mass market which include Access and Family amount to 4 million.

When it comes to sports, MultiChoice injects a lot of funding there which is the main factor to the inflation rates on the Premium to Access packages. If or when MultiChoice decides to offer sports on the Easyview package full-time they'd be various challenges awaiting them one would be keeping the rates intact.

DStv Easyview was R39 per month before it dropped to R29 as MultiChoice was struggling to retain consumers and part of the blame went to Openview. As mentioned, despite the package seeing an increase in content is under threat and although being the most affordable it isn't the most attractive of packages.

One way Easyview is able to give a channel like SABC Sport a run for their money would be provincial stations. Despite being the reliant on when it comes to premium entertainment has seen a number of events under their wing including DStv Diski Challenge, World Wrestling Professionals RPT and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).

During certain sporting events, SuperSport either launches a dedicated TV channel or temporarily opens up an existing channel to their consumers.

Heck even the movie channel TNT had opted to offer sports with the inclusion of wrestling promotion, All Elite Wrestling. If anything, I think the only other way MultiChoice can help Easyview compete even further with SABC Sport is by licensing some of its content from SuperSport to Magic Showcase. 

Magic Showcase broadcasts 16-18 hours a day and one way they could help extend those hours would be the inclusion of sporting event like Betway Premiership and compliment this with Jambo WWE. The content would broadcast on Magic Showcase weekly and could as well help them minimize costs.