MultiChoice will shut down its streaming platform Showmax after 11 years, marking the end of one of Africa’s most ambitious attempts to build a homegrown rival to global streaming giants. The decision follows French broadcaster Canal+’s $3 billion takeover of MultiChoice and forms part of a broader effort to streamline operations and cut costs. Launched in 2015, Showmax blended international titles with locally produced African content and was once touted as the continent’s best shot at a dominant streaming service. However, persistent losses—totaling about $428.9 million in the three years before the acquisition—ultimately made profitability elusive. Despite a major 2024 relaunch backed by NBCUniversal’s $309 million investment, the platform continued to struggle in Africa’s price-sensitive streaming market. MultiChoice subscribers have been assured their service continues uninterrupted for now, with migration plans coming soon.
TechCabal
