Johannesburg – In a move that reshapes the African media landscape, French conglomerate Canal+ has officially assumed control of MultiChoice Group after its mandatory takeover offer was declared unconditional.
The completion triggers a sweeping executive overhaul, creating a new integrated leadership structure for its expansive African operations.
Maxime Saada, CEO of CANAL+, said: “Today marks an important step forward for CANAL+, as we begin to integrate MultiChoice to create a group with enhanced scale, reach and creativity…
“I look forward to providing the market with a more detailed update on the strategy of our combined group during the first quarter of next year.”
The most significant change sees Calvo Mawela, the outgoing Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice Group, transitioning to a new strategic role as the Chairman of Canal+’s African operations.
This portfolio includes the entire MultiChoice Group, positioning Mawela to provide high-level guidance and governance across the continent.
Stepping into the role of CEO for these combined Canal+ African operations is David Mignot, a Canal+ executive.
He will be supported by Nicolas Dandoy as Chief Financial Officer.
Mignot, CEO CANAL+ Africa, said: “As a combined company, we are building on strong foundations to create a media and entertainment powerhouse to serve African consumers…
“Together, we will harness digital innovation… to expand access, enhance experiences, and bring compelling programming to more homes, while giving Africa a stronger voice on the world stage.”
The overall integrated company will be led by Canal+ Group CEO Maxime Saada as Executive Chairman.
“The MultiChoice board has made certain changes to its composition and leadership team to allow for suitable Canal+ representation, while maintaining its independence,” Canal+ said.
It confirmed the new board would oversee a “renewed commercial drive in pursuit of sustainable growth.”
The reshuffle extends to the financial leadership, with MultiChoice’s outgoing CFO, Timothy Jacobs, slated to hold a senior position within the finance department of the newly combined group.
This leadership transition follows the fulfilment of all regulatory conditions, including a complex corporate reorganisation to ensure compliance with South Africa’s Electronic Communications Act.
This reorganisation has removed voting restrictions for foreign shareholders, allowing Canal+’s 46% stake (and growing) to be counted in full and cementing its effective control.
The combined entity now forms a global media powerhouse with over 40 million subscribers across nearly 70 countries.
The integration process begins immediately, with a detailed strategic update on synergies and plans expected in early 2026.
Calvo Mawela, Chair, CANAL+ Africa, said: “Today we are starting an exciting new journey, one that will bring fresh opportunities for growth and success for our company and the entire African media industry…
“The new combined leadership team brings a strong vision and deep expertise to the whole CANAL+ Africa business, which will take the group to greater heights.”
*This article first appeared in our sister publication techfinancials.co.za
