MTN Group, the continent’s largest mobile network operator, announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership with UK-based video software giant Synamedia to develop a new streaming platform tailored to African audiences.
The collaboration will bring a state-of-the-art streaming experience to mobile and fibre broadband subscribers across MTN’s 16 African markets, leveraging the surging popularity of smartphones and the steady expansion of high-speed internet infrastructure across the continent.
Transforming Video Consumption in Africa
This new platform is designed to address a growing appetite for video content among African users, while also promoting digital inclusion. It will offer a hybrid model of live TV and on-demand video, blending traditional and modern viewing habits into a seamless digital experience.
What sets this initiative apart is its commitment to local relevance. Each market will feature a curated content strategy, reflecting regional languages, cultural nuances, and unique viewing preferences—ensuring that the content resonates with audiences at a grassroots level.
“We see a unique opportunity to transform video consumption in Africa with high-quality, accessible, and relevant content,” said Selorm Adadevoh, Group Chief Commercial Officer at MTN Group. “This partnership enables us to leverage cutting-edge technology and deep customer insights to enhance entertainment experiences and drive digital inclusion.”
Built for Scale, Powered by the Cloud
The platform will be powered by Synamedia’s cloud-based technologies, which will enable robust content delivery, personalised recommendations, and dynamic monetisation strategies. Whether through subscription-based services, free ad-supported channels, or targeted advertising, the offering aims to cater to a wide range of consumer needs and economic realities across the continent.
Synamedia’s involvement also ensures scalability and reliability. The company’s integrated cloud portfolio will allow MTN to rapidly deploy and expand the service while maintaining quality and performance across devices and networks.
“Thanks to MTN’s leadership and innovation, smartphone owners across Africa will be able to enjoy innovative linear TV and on-demand video,” said Paul Segre, CEO of Synamedia. “This partnership allows us to bring groundbreaking services to market that will delight customers and unlock new revenue opportunities.”
Competing in a Crowded Market
MTN’s move places it in direct competition with established players like Showmax, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Disney+, all of which have been expanding their African footprints. However, MTN and Synamedia are betting that their local-first approach, combined with their deep market reach, will give them a competitive edge.
A Broader Vision for Africa’s Digital Future
This partnership goes beyond entertainment. It underscores MTN’s evolution from a traditional telco into a tech-driven digital platform company, focused on innovation across fintech, media, and digital services.
As the partnership rolls out, millions of Africans are expected to gain better access to curated video content—fueling a new era of homegrown digital media, industry growth, and inclusive connectivity.
