The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) has approved the transfer of Orbicom’s spectrum and electronic communications licences to Canal+, a pivotal step that brings the French media giant closer to taking full control of MultiChoice.
The approval, granted on 28 August 2025 and disclosed on 18 September, covers Orbicom’s I-ECNS, I-ECS, and Radio Frequency Spectrum licences. With these, Canal+ can now operate networks, roll out new services, and utilise spectrum allocations across South Africa.
A Canal+ spokesperson described the move as a significant milestone in its commitment to Africa, adding that the company aims to deliver high-quality content to millions of homes while strengthening local ownership and jobs. ICASA also emphasized that its decision balanced consumer interests, competition, and equity requirements, including the rule that 40 percent of Canal+’s South African shareholding must be held by Historically Disadvantaged Persons (HDPs).
To align with these rules, MultiChoice is restructuring its operations under a new entity, LicenceCo, which will be majority-owned by HDPs and employees. As part of the transition, R1.375 billion has been earmarked for shareholder dividends.
Industry analysts say the Canal+ MultiChoice merger will reshape Africa’s media landscape, creating a pay-TV and streaming powerhouse that combines DStv, Showmax, and MultiChoice infrastructure with Canal+’s global content catalogue.
“We are creating a broadcasting and streaming giant that can stand toe-to-toe with global competitors like Netflix and Amazon Prime,” a MultiChoice executive said.
With approvals from ICASA, TRP, JSE, and the Financial Surveillance Department almost finalized, the transaction is entering its final stage, signaling the dawn of a new era for Africa’s media and entertainment sector.
