Canal+ Rolls Out Ksh 15 Billion Million Plan to Revive MultiChoice as DStv Subscribers Decline

French broadcaster Canal+ has unveiled a €100 million “Growth Boost Plan” to reverse declining subscriber numbers at MultiChoice, the parent company of DStv and GOtv.

The initiative comes after MultiChoice’s paid subscriber base fell from Ksh14.9 million to Ksh14.4 million in 2025, amid rising competition from streaming platforms and economic pressures on households.

“2025 has been another challenging year for MultiChoice,” said Canal+ in its latest financial update, citing both subscriber losses and unsustainable operating costs.

The plan focuses on making subscriptions more affordable, expanding sales efforts across the continent, enhancing local content, and combating piracy all aimed at strengthening the appeal of traditional pay-TV in Africa.

Why MultiChoice Needs a Revamp

MultiChoice’s drop in subscribers highlights growing challenges in Africa’s pay-TV market.

Expensive equipment, high subscription fees, and the rise of cheaper internet-based streaming options have led many consumers to reconsider traditional packages.

Also Read: New Copyright Bill Aims to Block Illegal Movies and Sports Streaming in Kenya

“Everyone seems to know what’s ailing DStv apart from the people at DStv. The average Kenyan football fan can no longer afford Ksh 7,300 per month for premium sports, while streaming options cost under Ksh3,000,” said Eric Njiru, a Kenyan sports fan on social media.

Investor confidence also dipped following the announcement, with Canal+ shares experiencing a significant decline amid concerns over Africa’s pay-TV outlook.

Key Elements of the €100 Million Growth Boost Plan

1. Lowering Costs for New Subscribers

Canal+ plans to subsidize the cost of DStv and GOtv decoders and equipment, reducing the upfront expense for new customers.

This move directly addresses affordability concerns and is expected to attract more households back to pay-TV.

“We want to make it easier for households to join our platforms without the barrier of expensive hardware,” said CEO Maxime Saada.

2. Expanding Sales Teams Across Africa

The company will hire more than 1,000 salespeople to drive growth across multiple markets.

This shift toward a local, on-the-ground sales strategy aims to improve customer acquisition and service.

“We are moving from a centralised organisation to boots on the ground,” added Saada.

3. Simplifying Pricing and Packages

MultiChoice plans to simplify subscription packages and pricing structures, making them easier to understand and more attractive to cost-conscious consumers.

This strategy is designed to retain existing subscribers while enticing new ones.

4. Investing in Local Content and Sports

The plan includes increased investment in local content, films, series, and sports broadcasting, including strengthened partnerships for major events like Springboks rugby matches.

Localized content aims to boost engagement and differentiate DStv and GOtv from international streaming competitors.

Also Read:OPINION: Digital Adoption Is Rising Among African SMEs, but International Payments Remain Costly

Looking Ahead: Optimism Amid Challenges

Despite initial dips in subscriber numbers, Canal+ expects the revamped strategy to increase earnings to approximately €170 million in 2026.

The company also anticipates greater efficiencies and synergies following its acquisition of MultiChoice.

“The €100 million plan is an investment in long-term growth. We are confident it will stabilize our subscriber base and strengthen our position in Africa’s pay-TV market,” CEO Maxime Saada said.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

DStv satellite dish and decoder set
PHOTO/File