- MultiChoice announced the discontinuation of its popular streaming service, Showmax
- MultiChoice reassured staff that job losses will not occur as they focus on premium content investment and partnerships
- French company, Canal+, bought MultiChoice last year in a multi-billion deal that saw it fully in control of DStv and Showmax
Canal+ SA has announced plans to shut down the popular streaming service Showmax following unprecedented “substantial annual losses”.
Source: UGC
The surprise decision followed a comprehensive review of the company’s streaming activities as it aims to maximise profit and reflect on long-term sustainability in an increasingly demanding global streaming environment.
Is Showmax shutting down?
In a statement on Thursday, March 4, MultiChoice Group admitted annual financial struggles and the ever-evolving capital-intensive environment has largely contributed to the discontinuation of the video-on-demand service.
“The substantial annual losses experienced by the Showmax business have proved unsustainable. The decision to phase out Showmax reflects our focus on building a sustainable, competitive business in the long term in an increasingly demanding global streaming environment,” it acknowledged.
As the changes are expected to take effect sometime in May, the company will turn its focus to its in-house streaming platforms that are equally capable of meeting African and international consumers’ expectations.
“This decision was made by the Showmax board of directors and reflects the continued focus of MultiChoice, a CANAL+ Company, on financial discipline and investment optimisation, in an increasingly competitive and capital-intensive global streaming environment. CANAL+ will continue to invest in premium content for MultiChoice subscribers, technological innovation and strategic partnerships to consolidate its leadership in the African entertainment market.”
Source: UGC
Will MultiChoice retrench its staff?
Coming at a time when most African countries struggle with high inflation rates and increasing high unemployment rate, the group reassured its staff that the decision will not result in job losses.
The group will engage and support employees through various transition options.
“The decision to discontinue Showmax services will not involve any retrenchments.”
As part of its future plans to remain a global player in streaming services, MultiChoice seeks to invest in premium content, and forge partnerships with other industry players.
“Importantly, at the moment, there will be no interruption to your current service. You can continue streaming as usual, and no action is required from you at this time.
“We will continue to invest in premium content, technology innovation and partnerships to deliver the best possible entertainment experience to our customers. Thank you for your continued support,” Showmax said.
Who acquired MultiChoice?
French media giant Canal+ announced the takeover of MultiChoice Group on September 22, 2025.
The multi-billion deal involved full control of the broadcaster and its platforms like DStv and Showmax.
Through its television channels, streaming platforms, and partnerships, Canal+ reaches over 25 million subscribers worldwide.
How many Kenyan companies face dissolution?
Elsewhere in Kenya, the registrar of companies has given 117 firms three months to justify their existence.
Kenyan constitution gives the registrar power to strike inactive companies off its register.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
