DSTV, GOTV set for new era as Canal+ finalises multiChoice deal

French media giant Canal+ has received final regulatory approval from South Africa’s competition tribunal to proceed with its acquisition of MultiChoice Group, the continent’s largest pay-TV provider.

This decision removes the last major hurdle in the transaction, paving the way for Canal+ to take full control of MultiChoice, which owns popular platforms such as DSTV and GOTV.

According to Reuters, Canal+ has offered a mandatory cash buyout of ZAR 125 (approximately $7.11) per share for all outstanding ordinary shares of MultiChoice it does not already own.

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The approval came with several public interest conditions, including commitments to increase the involvement of historically disadvantaged persons (HDPs) and support small, micro, and medium enterprises (SMMEs) within South Africa’s broadcasting sector.

The agreement also includes guarantees of continued investment in local content, especially general entertainment and sports programming.

In line with South Africa’s Electronic Communications Act, the companies plan to restructure MultiChoice’s local broadcasting arm into a separate entity that will be majority-owned by HDPs, ensuring compliance with local ownership laws.

Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada welcomed the approval as “the final stage in the South African competition process,” adding that the merger will allow the companies to scale operations, enter new high-growth markets, and achieve cost efficiencies.

MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela hailed the ruling as a “significant milestone,” noting that the merger aligns with both firms’ strategic vision and their mutual focus on social impact.

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The full acquisition is expected to be finalised before October 8, marking a new era for pay-TV across Africa.

Reuters.