Viacom's Viacom International Media Networks is set to broaden its entertainment channel offering on digital satellite TV service DStv in Africa with the launch of Nick Jr. and Nicktoons, and via an extension of the reach of BET International in South Africa. These strategic moves are part of Viacom's ongoing efforts to grow its African TV business.
Alex Okosi, senior VP and managing director of VIMN Africa, stated, "We are delighted to partner with MultiChoice to strengthen our kids and family and general entertainment offering in Africa."
Bob Bakish, CEO of Viacom International Media Networks, highlighted the significance of the African market, noting, "Africa is one of the fastest-growing markets in the world. There are more than a billion people there. An expanding middle class and economic growth have helped lift media businesses in Africa." He added, "We have seen very nice topline and bottom line growth there. We love the market."
DStv and MultiChoice Partnership
DStv, launched in 1995, is operated by leading African pay TV giant MultiChoice, part of media conglomerate Naspers, across Africa.
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According to Bakish, "More and more middle-class consumers are coming online and can now afford pay television," emphasizing the growth potential in the region.
Bakish also noted, "Africa is a great market. We have a strong position."
Nick Jr. Programming
Nick Jr. will air family-friendly hits such as Dora the Explorer, Bubble Guppies, and Paw Patrol in Africa.
Overview of Other Channels
While Nick Jr. and Nicktoons are key additions, here's a glimpse into other channels available in Africa:
- M-Net: The ultimate destination for the latest movies, must-watch series, and award-winning local shows.
- Discovery Channel: Dedicated to creating high-quality non-fiction content that informs and entertains about the world.
- Comedy Central: The first and only 24-hour comedy channel in Africa.
- MTV: The world’s premier youth entertainment brand, catering to the millennial generation.
- CBS Reality: Home to authentic and meaningful real-life stories.
- Discovery Family: Offers extraordinary stories of ordinary people.
- TNT: Features contemporary and Hollywood blockbusters.
- Zee World: The world's first 24-hour English dubbed Indian general entertainment channel.
- Star Life: Africa’s most loved Indian dubbed channel with dual English/Hindi audio and subtitles.
- CBS Justice: Home to authentic criminal cases.
- ID (Investigation Discovery): Features real-life mystery and suspense.
- Curiosity Channel: Brings real stories about real people from around the globe.
- HISTORY Channel: The leading destination for factual series and specials.
And many others.
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Challenges and Controversies
In June 2017, the Kenya Film Classification Board (KCFB) banned six cartoons airing on Cartoon Network Africa, Nickelodeon Africa, and Nicktoons Africa for allegedly promoting LGBT themes to minors. Shows affected included Adventure Time, Clarence, Steven Universe, and Hey Arnold!
Nicktoons Africa
Nicktoons Africa is a sister-channel of Nickelodeon that airs reruns of animated series from Nickelodeon along with other cartoons.
Nick Jr. Africa
Nick Jr. Africa is a sister-channel of Nickelodeon that is aimed at pre-school children. The channel was launched on 30 September 2014.
Availability in HD
On March 5, 2019, Nickelodeon (South Africa only), along with Comedy Central, BET, MTV, and MTV Base, became available in HD on DStv.
Nickelodeon's Presence in South Africa
Nickelodeon (commonly shortened as Nick) is a South African 24-hour television channel owned by Paramount Networks EMEAA. The channel was launched on July 1, 2008. Before it was a channel, it was a block on the South African children's channel KTV and Koowee.
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