Overview:
The UCC is asking for public comments on a proposed deal that would see Groupe Canal+ take full control of MultiChoice Uganda and its DStv and GOtv services.
KAMPALA, UGANDA — MultiChoice Uganda and its sister company, GOTV Uganda, have applied to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to transfer their licenses to French media conglomerate Groupe Canal+, according to a public notice published Tuesday.
The application, which seeks a “change in control,” is a step toward Groupe Canal+ taking full ownership of MultiChoice Group Limited, the parent company of MultiChoice Uganda and GOTV Uganda. Groupe Canal+ already holds 45.2% of MultiChoice Group Limited.
The UCC is inviting written public comments on the application within 14 days of the notice’s publication. The commission is mandated by law to consider the public interest before approving any license transfer.
If the transfer is approved, it would give Groupe Canal+ control of one of Uganda’s largest pay-television providers. MultiChoice Uganda, which operates the DStv and GOtv services, is a major player in the country’s broadcasting landscape.
The application is part of a larger, continent-wide effort by Groupe Canal+ to acquire MultiChoice Group. The transaction has already been subject to regulatory review in other African countries and is part of a mandatory offer to acquire the remaining shares of MultiChoice Group.