Canal+ completes $2bn MultiChoice takeover: What it means for DStv and GOtv customers
French media giant Canal+ has completed its long-awaited $2 billion takeover of MultiChoice Group, cementing its dominance in Africa’s pay TV market and creating what it described as a “global media and entertainment powerhouse.”
The deal, which makes Canal+ the largest shareholder of MultiChoice, brings together operations that collectively serve more than 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries. It marks the largest transaction ever undertaken by Canal+ and represents a decisive step in its ambition to become a leading global media player.
MultiChoice, the parent company of DStv and GOtv, confirmed that the takeover has now been finalised following regulatory approvals. The company assured its customers that the merger would not disrupt existing services.
In a joint statement, the two groups clarified that subscribers’ services would continue without changes. “Will my DStv or GOtv service be affected? No. Services continue as normal,” the statement noted. It added that there would be no immediate changes to packages, pricing, or access, and that customer support, billing channels, and local branch operations would remain unchanged.
Maxime Saada, the long-serving Chief Executive of Canal+, will lead the new entity alongside MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela and David Mignot. Saada described the deal as a defining moment for both companies. “Together, we will bring you more of what you love — African stories, world-class entertainment, and exciting innovations for the future,” he said.
Canal+, headquartered in France, operates across Europe, Africa and Asia, with more than 25 million subscribers worldwide. The company is known for premium sports, original films, documentaries, children’s programming, and international partnerships, including its film production arm, StudioCanal.
For millions of households across Africa, the merger signals continuity rather than disruption in the short term. Customers will continue using their current decoders, apps, and accounts, with Canal+ emphasising that its focus will be on strengthening content offerings and investing further in African storytelling.
The integration of MultiChoice into Canal+ marks a major milestone in Africa’s media landscape, positioning the group as a central player in both 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.