DStv bombshell hits entertainment industry
Multichoice Holdings Africa’s (MHA) announcement to withdraw its services in Malawi has left the country’s entertainment and creative industries in shock.
Industry players such as television showroom operators and content creators who relied on their collaboration with Multichoice Malawi reacted to the development during random interviews with The Nation.
Actress-cum-filmmaker Joyce Mhango-Chavula in an interview yesterday described the development as a hard hit which has narrowed the chances of Malawian creatives to penetrate the international market.
“Yes, we did not have much local content on DStv compared to our neighbours, but still it was one of the best platforms for our content to reach a wider audience. However, as content creators this challenges us to produce content which meets the requirements of other platforms,” she said.
Mhango-Chavula also said the development should create an opening for the local channels to up their game and start paying for locally produced content.
She said: “Probably the government and the creative sector can work together and use this as an opportunity to boost and promote local content on the local channels as we push for our visibility on other international platforms.”
Musician Tay Grin said the platform apart from giving entertainment, allowed people to stay connected with happenings in the world.
Said the Nyau King: “When you had your song featured on DStv outlets such as Channel O it meant a lot. To you personally it was a source of pride as you knew back home your people were watching. It also provided inspiration to the up-and-coming artists.”
Bellings Phiri, a Mpemba resident who offers DStv services to football fans, said the development has left him shocked.
“I am still processing this. I know my service at my small hall provided entertainment and access to the English Premier League to many. It is also my livelihood as I operate on a profit. I honestly do not know how to proceed,” he said.
MultiChoice Malawi marketing and communications manager Zena Makunje told The Nation that their contribution to the film industry in Africa has been a focus point in the various markets they operate as DStv service providers.
She said: “Unfortunately considering the hostile regulatory environment in Malawi, we are unable to continue offering DStv services to Malawians and any other services, plans or corporate social investments which are aligned to MultiChoice Africa Holdings DStv operations.”
On Tuesday evening MHA announced their intent to withdraw their services with immediate effect after what they termed as ‘increasingly adverse regulatory environment’ following disagreements between MultiChoice Malawi and Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (Macra).
