MultiChoice Uganda Limited and GOtv Uganda Limited have formally applied to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) seeking approval to transfer their licenses through a change in control from MultiChoice Group Limited to Groupe Canal+.
Currently, MultiChoice Africa Holdings BV holds 85% of shares in both MultiChoice Uganda and GOtv Uganda. The company is wholly owned by MultiChoice Group Limited, which runs popular pay-TV brands like DStv and GOtv. Groupe Canal+, a French media giant, already owns 45.2% of MultiChoice Group and is now looking to acquire the remaining 54.8% shares. If successful, this will give Canal+ full control of MultiChoice Group globally, and by extension, indirect control of MultiChoice Uganda and GOtv Uganda.
Importantly, the shareholding structure in the Ugandan subsidiaries will not change. What is changing is the parent company that ultimately controls them. The UCC, under Section 43 of the Uganda Communications Act and Regulation 102 of the Licensing Regulations, requires approval for such a transfer. The law also obliges the regulator to consider public interest before making a decision.
Analysts say this move reflects a growing trend of global media consolidation. Groupe Canal+, which has been expanding aggressively in Africa, views MultiChoice as a strategic gateway to the continent’s fast-growing pay-TV market. For Ugandan consumers, this could bring potential benefits such as increased investment, more diverse content, and improved service delivery. However, questions remain about the impact on subscription prices, competition, and local content production.
The UCC has invited the public to submit written comments on the application within 14 days. This ensures that consumer voices are heard before a final decision is taken.
If approved, Uganda will see one of its biggest media service providers shift under the control of a European media conglomerate — a development that could reshape the broadcasting landscape in the country.
Comments can be submitted via UCC’s offices in Bugolobi, Kampala, or by email at legallicensing@ucc.co.ug.
