Canal+ seals $2bn MultiChoice deal — impact on DStv and GOtv users
MultiChoice owners of DStv and GOtv confirmed that regulatory approval has been secured and that the transaction is complete. The company reassured subscribers that day-to-day services remain unchanged.
French pay-TV giant Canal+ has completed its $2 billion takeover of MultiChoice Group, marking the biggest deal in the company’s history and setting the stage for a powerful global entertainment player.
The merger unites businesses that together reach over 40 million customers across nearly 70 countries. By becoming the main shareholder in MultiChoice, Canal+ has strengthened its long-term ambition to rank among the world’s most influential media companies.
MultiChoice owners of DStv and GOtv confirmed that regulatory approval has been secured and that the transaction is complete. The company reassured subscribers that day-to-day services remain unchanged.
In a joint statement, the two companies directly addressed customers’ concerns:
“Will my DStv or GOtv service be affected? No. Services continue as normal.” The note further explained that there will be no immediate adjustments to pricing, packages, access, customer support or billing. Branch operations and call centre lines also remain intact.
Leadership of the new group will be headed by Maxime Saada, Canal+’s long-serving CEO, alongside MultiChoice’s Calvo Mawela and David Mignot. Saada described the moment as historic:
“Together, we will bring you more of what you love African stories, world-class entertainment, and exciting innovations for the future.”
Canal+, which is headquartered in France and is part of the Vivendi group, already serves more than 25 million subscribers across Europe, Africa, and Asia. Its portfolio covers premium sports, documentaries, children’s shows, original films, and global studio partnerships through StudioCanal.
For viewers in Africa, the change signals stability rather than disruption. Customers will continue using their current decoders, apps and accounts, while Canal+ has promised to focus heavily on enriching content and backing African storytelling.
The absorption of MultiChoice marks a turning point in Africa’s television industry, positioning Canal+ as a central force in shaping local and international entertainment
About the takeover
1. Who is CANAL+ (Group CANAL+)?
CANAL+ is a leading global media and entertainment group, headquartered in France and operating across Europe, Africa, Asia, and beyond. They are part of Vivendi, a world-class content, media and communications group. CANAL+ is best known for its expertise in pay-TV, film production, and sports rights, and already serves millions of viewers across more than 50 countries, including 25 in Africa. More info: [www.canalplus.com]
2. Will my DStv or GOtv service be affected?
No. Services continue as normal.
3. Will there be changes to packages, pricing, or access?
No immediate changes are planned.
4. Do I need to change my decoder, app, or account?
No. Your decoder, app, and account remain unchanged.
5. Do I need to change my app or account?
No. Your app and account remain the same.
6. Will there be changes to customer support?
No. Support channels remain the same.
7. Can I still visit my local branch or call the same Contact Centre number?
Yes. All support remains unchanged.
8. Will I be billed differently or from CANAL+ going forward?
No. Billing continues through the same channels
