French media conglomerate Canal+ has further expanded its stake in MultiChoice Group Limited, bringing its total shareholding to 76.52%. The development underscores Canal+’s deepening commitment to Africa’s pay-TV and digital entertainment market.
In a regulatory filing, MultiChoice confirmed that Canal+ now holds 72.46% of its issued ordinary shares after a series of recent acquisitions. The company also disclosed that Canal+ has received additional acceptances for its mandatory offer to remaining shareholders, covering another 17.95 million shares. Once these transactions are finalized, the French group’s total interest will rise to 76.52%.
The announcement, made in compliance with Section 122(3)(b) of South Africa’s Companies Act and JSE Listings Requirements, follows all necessary regulatory procedures. MultiChoice noted that it has filed the relevant notice with the Takeover Regulation Panel (TRP) as required by law.
In a statement, the MultiChoice Board of Directors affirmed the accuracy and completeness of the disclosure, emphasizing that no material details have been omitted.
This marks the latest step in Canal+’s steady consolidation of MultiChoice, a move that analysts view as a pivotal shift in Africa’s broadcast landscape. The deal strengthens Canal+’s strategic position as it seeks to merge traditional pay-TV with emerging digital streaming opportunities across Sub-Saharan Africa — a region witnessing rapid growth in content consumption and internet connectivity.
Canal+, a subsidiary of France’s Vivendi Group, has been gradually increasing its MultiChoice holdings over the past year, positioning itself for greater influence in shaping Africa’s evolving media ecosystem.
