French media giant Canal+ has completed the full acquisition of MultiChoice Group—owners of DStv and GOtv—in a landmark $3 billion (about 55 billion rand) deal
The transaction, which gives Canal+ the remaining 55% it didn’t previously own, was approved by South Africa’s Competition Tribunal on Wednesday, July 23.
After months of regulatory scrutiny, the deal is expected to be finalized by October 8, 2025. The Tribunal gave its approval with several conditions to protect local content and uphold South Africa’s media independence.
Canal+, already active in 25 African countries with over 8 million subscribers, aims to significantly expand its reach, targeting up to 100 million subscribers across the continent. The acquisition of MultiChoice—Africa’s biggest pay-TV provider with over 14.5 million subscribers and major platforms like SuperSport—gives the French firm a stronghold in English, Portuguese, and now more integrated French-language content.
Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada described the merger as “transformative,” noting it would enhance scale, unlock synergies, and boost presence in fast-growing African markets.
Under the deal, Canal+ has committed to spending about 26 billion rand over the next three years on local initiatives. These include keeping MultiChoice’s headquarters in South Africa, investing in local content and sports, and supporting South African creatives.
The takeover began in 2023 with Canal+ offering 125 rand per share in a buyout bid. With the acquisition now complete, Canal+ is set to reshape Africa’s media landscape and strengthen its foothold in the continent’s pay-TV sector.
Follow Us on Facebook – @LadunLiadi; Instagram – @LadunLiadi; Twitter – @LadunLiadi; Youtube – @LadunLiadiTV for updates
 deal){kind=link}