Started 30 years ago, MultiChoice Uganda has significantly contributed to the Ugandan
economy and entertainment sector since its establishment in 1994.
According to official figures, MultiChoice Uganda has significantly invested in the
Ugandan film industry, contributing an estimated US$150 million to the national
economy and driving rapid growth in the film and video-entertainment sector. Their
investment includes commissioning over 10,000 hours of locally produced content and
supporting initiatives like the Uganda Film Festival, the MultiChoice Talent Factory, and
regional film competitions.
MultiChoice Uganda has also created jobs and supported numerous small businesses
through their network of installers, agents, and retailers. Additionally, they are a major
corporate taxpayer, contributing to the national revenue.
“MultiChoice Uganda has commissioned an estimated 10,000 hours of locally produced
content, contributing to the growth of Uganda’s creative industries and supporting local
talent.The company invested US$24.5 million in the GOtv digital terrestrial network,
making quality content accessible to people in 12 towns and cities,”Nyombi Thembo the
Executive Director of Uganda Communication Commission said.
According to Nyombi MultiChoice Talent Factory is a key initiative aimed at developing
future producers, cast, and crew, fostering a sustainable pipeline of local talent.
MultiChoice has also partnered with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC)
and other entities to support initiatives like the Uganda Film Festival and regional film
competitions, providing exposure and training for filmmakers.
“MultiChoice’s investment in the GOtv digital terrestrial television network has brought
MultiChoice content to people in 12 towns and cities, making it more
accessible,”Nyombi stated.
MultiChoice’s operations have a ripple effect, benefiting thousands of entrepreneurs,
suppliers, employees, and partners, including small businesses involved in installation,
agency, and retailers.
Dr Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister of ICT commends MultiChoice Uganda for elevating
the country’s entertainment landscape to an international level by promoting film as a
tourist attraction.
“MultiChoice Uganda has played a pivotal role in transforming our media and
entertainment landscape. Over the past three decades, they have not only provided
exceptional pay-TV services but have also been a beacon of progress and
development.” he stated.
“MultiChoice Uganda has been instrumental in our journey especially during the time of
transitions from analogue to digital broadcasting, enhancing the quality of television
services for millions of Ugandans. Through its local content development and skills-
transfer initiatives in the last few years, MultiChoice Uganda’s efforts have significantly
bolstered this vision, ensuring that our citizens
have access to world-class entertainment from both local and international content.”
Baryomunsi added.
Glauco Ferreira, the Regional Director, MultiChoice Africa Holdings, expressed the
business’ gratitude to Ministry of ICT and Uganda Communications Commission (UCC),
acknowledging a conducive regulatory environment.
“Our focus remains the same, being Africa’s most-loved storyteller through the
incredible local stories you watch on DStv and GOtv across the continent,” Ferreira
noted.
Hassan Saleh, the Managing Director, MultiChoice Uganda expressed gratitude for a
significant impact by contributing to the economy through job creation, investment in
local content production through M-net, supporting the country’s analogue to Digital
migration efforts, sports promotion and skilling through the MultiChoice Talent Factory
(MTF).
“We have spearheaded a local content renaissance,partnering and collaborating with
aspiring filmmakers with opportunities to showcase their work on platforms tailored for
local content, Pearl Magic and Pearl Magic Prime.” Saleh narrates.