In a landmark move set to redefine the African entertainment space, French media giant Canal+ has finalized a $3 billion deal to acquire MultiChoice Group, the South African pay-TV heavyweight behind DStv and GOtv.
After months of speculation, regulatory scrutiny, and shareholder engagement, South Africa’s Competition Tribunal granted final approval on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. This clears the path for Canal+ to complete the takeover — expected to close by October 8, pending final clearance from the country’s communications authority.
The acquisition marks one of the biggest media deals in African history. Canal+, which already owned a 45.2% stake in MultiChoice, made its move for full ownership following a €1.2 billion ($1.3 billion) investment push that began in 2020.
Speaking through a statement on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada described the deal as a major milestone for both companies. “With this approval, we’re now entering the final phase. This acquisition is not just about business — it’s about unlocking new possibilities in African media,” he said.
For Canal+, the move signals a bold step into Africa’s English-speaking markets, with MultiChoice’s 40-year legacy and nearly 50 million subscribers offering a strong foundation. The company plans to leverage MultiChoice’s local expertise, strong content library, and deep reach across the continent.
MultiChoice, known for pioneering pay-TV in Africa, has consistently delivered popular local and international content through platforms like DStv and GOtv. Since its 2019 spin-off from Naspers, it has remained a major force in shaping Africa’s viewing culture.
MultiChoice Chairman Elias Masilela welcomed the acquisition, calling it a vote of confidence in the company’s long-term strategy and Africa’s growth potential. “This partnership affirms our belief that Africa remains a vibrant and valuable market. Canal+ recognizes what we’ve built over the last four decades,” he said.
To comply with South African laws that limit foreign ownership of broadcast licenses to 20%, MultiChoice has created a separate company — LicenceCo — to manage and hold its domestic broadcast license independently.
While the Competition Commission had earlier greenlit the deal with conditions, those included commitments to invest in local film and television content, and to actively promote South African productions on a global stage.
As the deal nears full completion, industry analysts say it could usher in a new era of content collaboration, production quality, and broader digital access across Africa — with Canal+ now positioned at the center of it all.