By: Baba Mohammed Issahaq/Hamza Lansah Lolly
French media giant Canal+ has completed the takeover of South Africa’s MultiChoice Group, parent company of DStv, Showmax and SuperSport, in a transaction valued at 35 billion rand, equivalent to about 2 billion US dollars.
The deal, which became unconditional on 19 September 2025, follows approval by South Africa’s Competition Tribunal in July, subject to public-interest commitments. Canal+ now directly holds 46 per cent of MultiChoice’s shares, with an additional 2.2 per cent tendered under the offer, giving the French broadcaster effective control of the pay-TV operator.
As part of the conditions, MultiChoice established a new entity, LicenceCo, to comply with South Africa’s broadcasting ownership regulations. The company is majority-owned and controlled by Historically Disadvantaged Persons, while Canal+ retains full voting rights on its broader shareholding.
The leadership of MultiChoice is also changing. Outgoing Group Chief Executive Calvo Mawela will assume the role of chairman of Canal+ Africa operations, while David Mignot takes over as Chief Executive and Nicolas Dandoy as Chief Financial Officer.
Canal+ has pledged to sustain investments in local content, sports and small business development. A comprehensive strategy update is expected in early 2026.
The transaction marks one of the most significant shifts in Africa’s broadcasting industry in recent years, positioning Canal+ as a dominant player across both Anglophone and Francophone markets.
