Canal+ Afrique expands reach in Africa
French pay TV operator Canal+ Group’s Canal+ Afrique has partnered with satellite operator SES to penetrate new markets and bring ultra-HD channels to African communities.
The move is in response to the rising rate of TV consumption in West Africa, which has led to demand for more choice, improved local content and premium video quality.
In 2002, Canal+ partnered with SES to replace the NSS-7 satellite that provided limited coverage in West Africa. It later revamped the SES-4 satellite footprint, which reached more audiences in the region.
By 2018, the pay TV operator increased its reach to approximately 40% of TV households in the region, with a line-up of more than 200 channels, radio stations and services. The Canal+ Afrique platform also has the largest HD offering in Africa at more than 50 channels.
David Mignot, CEO of Canal+ Afrique, said: “Canal+ Afrique and SES had been looking into how to expand the market and deliver additional and improved services to African audiences and, through this collaboration with SES, Canal+ Afrique expects to be rolling out ultra HD-programming within the next three years.”
In related news, SES has named Frank Esser as chairman, replacing Romain Bausch.
“I am honoured to be elected chairperson at this important and exciting time for our company with SES being in a great position for further development,” said Esser.
“I am delighted to be joining the board with several new directors who will each bring strong competencies, complementing those of the rest of our board colleagues. I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Romain and his contribution, commitment and ongoing service to SES with his continued presence as a director.”
tagged in: Canal+ Afrique, SES