MultiChoice, the parent company of DStv and Showmax, has announced price increases across its satellite TV and streaming platforms, effective April 1, 2025. The South African media giant attributes the adjustment to growing operational costs, including content acquisition, satellite maintenance, and tech infrastructure investment.
DStv Price Adjustments
The revised pricing applies across several DStv packages:
- DStv Compact Plus: $36.33 (up 6.5% from $34.12)
- DStv Premium: $53.97 (up 5.4% from $51.21)
- DStv Access: $6.89 (up 4.2% from $6.61)
- DStv EasyView: $1.65 (up 3.4% from $1.59)
- DStv Family: $18.68 (up 3% from $18.13)
- DStv Compact: $26.40 (up 2.1% from $25.85)
Showmax Pricing Changes
Streaming platform Showmax is also seeing adjustments:
- Showmax Entertainment Mobile: $2.75 (up 11.1% from $2.48)
- Showmax Entertainment Mobile + Premier League: $6.61 (up 21.2% from $5.45)
- Showmax Entertainment + Premier League: $8.26 (up 7.1% from $7.71)
Rationale and Reactions
MultiChoice says the increases are necessary to sustain quality service and diverse content, especially amid rising content production and delivery costs.
“We remain committed to providing premium entertainment while ensuring continued investment in technology and programming,” the company stated.
The price hike has drawn mixed responses from subscribers across Africa. Some viewers expressed understanding due to inflation and production costs, while others criticized the timing amid economic pressures.
Legal Pushback in Nigeria
In Nigeria, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has filed a legal case against MultiChoice Nigeria and CEO John Ugbe, accusing the company of ignoring regulatory orders. The FCCPC claims MultiChoice went ahead with the price increase despite being directed to maintain existing rates pending review.
No Price Change in Kenya
Amid the controversy, MultiChoice clarified that Kenya will not be affected by the upcoming adjustments. Kenyan subscribers of both DStv and Showmax will continue paying current rates beyond April 1.
Shifting Market Dynamics
The move comes as the African pay-TV landscape faces growing competition from global streaming giants and local platforms offering affordable internet-based alternatives. With more options available, price sensitivity among users remains a key factor shaping loyalty and retention.
As the changes roll out, MultiChoice’s balancing act between maintaining profitability and retaining subscribers will be closely watched across the continent.
