MultiChoice has assured millions of DStv subscribers that their viewing experience will remain unchanged, despite the company’s official takeover by Canal+.

On Monday, 22 September 2025, the broadcaster announced that Canal+’s acquisition offer had become unconditional, with the deal set to be concluded in October. The announcement ends months of negotiations and regulatory approvals, marking a new era for Africa’s largest pay-TV operator.

Leadership Shake-Up at MultiChoice

As part of the agreement, MultiChoice’s leadership and board underwent significant changes. The company’s board of directors resigned on 22 September, making way for new Canal+ appointments.

Two Canal+ executives — David Mignot and Nicolas Dandoy — will now lead Canal+ African operations as CEO and CFO, replacing Calvo Mawela and Tim Jacobs. Mawela will become chair of the African operations, while Jacobs will continue to play a senior role in the merged group’s finance division.

Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada described the development as a “major step forward,” highlighting that the combined group now serves over 40 million subscribers in nearly 70 countries. He added that the deal would enhance investments in both creative content and sporting rights across Europe, Africa, and Asia.

MultiChoice Reassures Customers: “No Action Required”

The takeover has raised questions among customers, with many DStv subscribers worried about possible changes to their service. In response, MultiChoice directly addressed user concerns in an email.

The company stressed that subscriptions, channels, and services remain exactly the same. Subscribers can continue using their decoders, remotes, and apps without making any adjustments.

“You will continue to enjoy the same DStv channels, shows, and services you know and love,” MultiChoice stated. “This is simply the next step in our journey, and we’re committed to delivering the same quality entertainment you expect from us.”

What This Means for DStv and GOtv Viewers

For now, the Canal+ takeover does not bring immediate changes to subscription prices or content lineups on DStv and GOtv. Viewers can expect continuity while the two companies focus on integration.

Analysts, however, suggest that over the medium term, Canal+ may introduce new bundles, enhanced streaming services, and expanded international programming. Sports broadcasting through SuperSport remains unaffected in the short term, though experts predict possible repackaging of sports rights as Canal+ strengthens its digital platforms.

Looking Ahead: A Global Entertainment Powerhouse

MultiChoice executives, including outgoing CEO Calvo Mawela, described the deal as the beginning of an “exciting new journey.” The new leadership team will be tasked with steering Canal+ Africa into its next growth phase.

For subscribers, the bottom line is simple: DStv and GOtv remain unchanged today. The long-term outlook may bring gradual evolution in pricing, streaming, and content offerings as Canal+ integrates its global resources with MultiChoice’s African reach.

FAQ

Q1: Will my DStv subscription change now that MultiChoice is part of Canal+?
No. MultiChoice has assured subscribers that their packages, channels, and viewing experience remain exactly the same. No action is required on your part.

Q2: Do I need a new decoder or remote after the takeover?
No. You can keep using your existing DStv or GOtv decoder, remote, and apps. Canal+ has confirmed there will be no technical changes in the short term.

Q3: Will DStv and GOtv prices go up?
Not immediately. Pricing remains unchanged for now, but analysts suggest Canal+ may review subscription models and bundles in the coming 12–24 months.

Q4: What about SuperSport and sports broadcasting?
SuperSport remains part of DStv’s lineup. There are no changes to live sports coverage at this time. In the future, Canal+ may explore new ways to package sports rights, especially through streaming.

Q5: Is GOtv still available and affordable?
Yes. GOtv continues to operate as usual. Canal+ has experience running affordable TV services in Africa and is expected to maintain GOtv’s accessibility for price-sensitive households.

Q6: What will happen to local African content?
Regulators required Canal+ to commit to local production. That means Nollywood, regional dramas, and African entertainment should remain a key focus, with potential for more investment in storytelling.

Q7: Who is now leading MultiChoice under Canal+?
David Mignot (CEO) and Nicolas Dandoy (CFO) from Canal+ now head Canal+ Africa operations, which include MultiChoice. Former CEO Calvo Mawela has become chairman of the African operations.

Q8: Will customer support or billing change?
No. Subscribers will continue to use the same customer care channels, billing systems, and apps. Any future changes will be communicated directly by MultiChoice.

Q9: How big is the new Canal+ and MultiChoice group?
Together, the combined company now serves more than 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries, making it one of the largest global entertainment groups.

Q10: Should subscribers be worried about the future?
Not in the short term. Services remain stable, and regulators are monitoring the merger. Over time, subscribers may see expanded content choices, enhanced streaming platforms, and gradual adjustments in packages.