In a multibillion-rand deal that will echo across African households, the Canal+ MultiChoice takeover has been finalised, with French media giant Canal+ securing effective control of MultiChoice, the parent company of DStv and GOtv.
Valued at approximately ZAR 35 billion (around $2 billion USD), the Canal+ MultiChoice agreement was declared unconditional on September 19, 2025, and completed on September 22, marking the end of an independent era for the South African broadcasting powerhouse.
This Canal+ MultiChoice takeover not only consolidates Canal+’s dominance in the continent’s entertainment sector but also promises enhanced content and services for millions of subscribers across sub-Saharan Africa.
The Road to Acquisition
MultiChoice, founded in 1986, has long been synonymous with premium television in Africa. Its flagship DStv satellite service boasts over 10 million subscribers, while the more affordable GOtv decoder targets mass-market audiences with terrestrial broadcasting.
Facing mounting challenges like cord-cutting, streaming competition from Netflix and Showmax (ironically, MultiChoice’s own platform), and economic pressures, MultiChoice’s market value had dipped significantly in recent years.
Canal+, a subsidiary of Vivendi SE, first signalled interest in 2020 with a minority stake purchase.
By 2024, it held 45% of MultiChoice shares, paving the way for a full takeover bid announced in February 2025 at ZAR 125 per share, equivalent to about ZAR 35 billion ($2 billion).
Regulatory approvals from South Africa’s Competition Commission and other bodies were cleared by September 19, 2025, allowing Canal+ to secure 46% ownership, with an additional 2.2% tendered, pushing control to 48.2%.
The deal’s completion unlocks a combined subscriber base of nearly 25 million, blending Canal+’s French-African expertise with MultiChoice’s local dominance.
For investors, it’s a bullish signal: MultiChoice shares surged 15% post-announcement, reflecting optimism about partnerships in content production and distribution.
Leadership Shake-Up: David Mignot Takes the Helm as CEO
As part of the integration, Canal+ unveiled a revamped board for MultiChoice and its African operations.
Stepping in as CEO of Canal+ Africa and effectively leading MultiChoice is David Mignot, a seasoned executive with over a decade at the helm of Canal+’s African ventures.
READ ALSO:MultiChoice Kenya Experiences 19% Fall in Subscribers as of September 2024
Mignot, who joined Canal+ in 2011 as Project Director for its Africa strategy, has driven expansions into key markets like Nigeria, Senegal, and Angola.
His appointment signals a focus on digital transformation, with plans to boost streaming via Canal+ Online and integrate AI-driven personalisation for DStv and GOtv users.
“Under Mignot’s leadership, we’ll leverage Canal+’s global resources to deliver more localised, high-quality content,” noted Canal+ Group CEO Maxime Saada during the announcement.
This includes stepping up investments in African original productions, from Nollywood blockbusters to South African dramas, aiming to counter global streamers’ encroachment.
Calvo Mawela’s Enduring Role as Chair of Canal+ Africa
Outgoing MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela, who steered the company through turbulent times including the COVID-19 pandemic and forex volatility, transitions to Chair of Canal+ Africa.
Mawela’s deep-rooted experience spanning policy, strategy, and operations positions him ideally to guide the merged entity’s governance.
“This new chapter brings fresh opportunities for growth and innovation,” Mawela stated, emphasising continuity for employees and subscribers.
The board also welcomes Nicolas Dandoy as CFO, replacing Timothy Jacobs, who shifts to a senior finance role within the group.
This blend of French strategic expertise and African operational savvy is expected to navigate regulatory hurdles and promote pan-African collaborations.
Implications for DStv, GOtv Subscribers and the Broader Industry
For everyday viewers, the Canal+ MultiChoice merger could mean stabilised pricing amid inflation woes, with no immediate hikes announced.
Enhanced sports rights, think Premier League and AFCON via Canal+’s European ties, may enrich bouquets, while GOtv’s entry-level packages get a tech upgrade for better streaming.
However, concerns remain over potential job cuts; MultiChoice employs over 7,000, and integration may streamline operations.
Industry-wide, this Canal+ MultiChoice takeover cements Canal+’s 40% market share in African pay-TV, challenging rivals like StarTimes and Naspers’ interests.
It also highlights a shift toward consolidated media giants, mirroring global trends like media consolidation worldwide.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Horizon for African Entertainment
As of September 24, 2025, the Canal+ MultiChoice union heralds a vibrant future. With Mignot at the CEO helm and Mawela as chair, expect accelerated digital pivots, richer content ecosystems, and sustained accessibility for underserved regions.
For DStv and GOtv loyalists, it’s less about change and more about evolution, ensuring African entertainment’s global reach shines brighter on international screens.
FAQs
Is Canal+ buying MultiChoice?
Yes, Canal+ has completed its acquisition of MultiChoice, securing a controlling stake in the Canal+ MultiChoice takeover valued at ZAR 35 billion ($2 billion USD). The deal became unconditional on September 19, 2025, giving Canal+ effective control with 48.2% ownership.
Has Canal+ taken its stake in MultiChoice past 40%?
Absolutely, prior to the finalisation, Canal+ held 46% of MultiChoice shares, and with an additional 2.2% tendered, its stake now exceeds 48%, surpassing the 40% threshold and enabling full control in the Canal+ MultiChoice deal.
Who is the new owner of MultiChoice?
Canal+, the French media subsidiary of Vivendi SE, is now the effective owner of MultiChoice following the Canal+ MultiChoice takeover. The acquisition integrates MultiChoice into Canal+ Africa’s operations, creating a powerhouse with over 40 million subscribers.
Who is the biggest shareholder of MultiChoice?
Canal+ is the biggest shareholder of MultiChoice, holding 48.2% of the company after the recent tender in the Canal+ MultiChoice acquisition. This positions it as the dominant stakeholder ahead of other investors like Phuthuma Nathi.
Ronnie Paul is a seasoned writer and analyst with a prolific portfolio of over 1,000 published articles, specialising in fintech, cryptocurrency, climate change, and digital finance at Africa Digest News.
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