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Voices of the Future: How MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Filmmakers are Redefining African Storytelling

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Africa’s creative landscape is transforming, driven by the dynamic voices of Generation Z. This tech-savvy, socially conscious, and unapologetically authentic generation are not just consuming content; they are shaping it. Through film, television, and digital media, they are challenging norms, driving culture, and defining the future of African entertainment.

With one of the youngest populations in the world, Gen Z’s influence on Africa’s cultural landscape is undeniable. From activism movements like #EndSARS in Nigeria to the Finance Bill protests in Kenya, young Africans are making their voices heard across various sectors, including entertainment. Their stories are not only relevant; they are becoming the cornerstone of the modern African narrative.

Gen Z’s evolving media consumption habits reflect their desire for authenticity and representation. According to the PwC Africa Entertainment and Media Outlook 2024–2028, Nigeria’s over-the-top (OTT) streaming is set to grow at a 10.5% compound annual growth rate, while linear TV is expected to increase by 8.1%. Similarly, in Kenya, OTT streaming is projected to grow by 10.9%, with linear TV seeing a smaller 3.2% rise. These statistics highlight the shift towards digital platforms, where Gen Z seeks content that aligns with their realities.

An Ernst & Young (EY) survey reinforces this trend, revealing that authenticity is the most valued trait in content among Gen Z. They crave stories that mirror their experiences, struggles, and aspirations, unfiltered and true to life. This is where young African filmmakers are stepping in, bringing fresh perspectives and narratives that resonate deeply with their audience.

Recognising the importance of nurturing this new wave of filmmakers, MultiChoice Africa’s leading entertainment powerhouse has invested in the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) academies in Lagos, Lusaka, and Nairobi. These academies equip aspiring creatives with the skills to excel in storytelling, production, and cinematography. Each year, 60 filmmakers graduate from the MTF programme, stepping into the industry with innovative ideas and techniques. Many of these filmmakers go on to produce critically acclaimed films that captivate audiences across the continent.

The significance of the MTF initiative is reflected in the continued success of its alumni. Films such as Gone (West Africa), Everything Light Touches (West Africa), The Immersive Alarm (East Africa), Deadbeat (East Africa), Mwananga (Southern Africa), and Rivals in Time (Southern Africa) were nominated for the AMVCAs, showcasing the impact of MTF-trained filmmakers. Past standout productions like Irora IyaObi Di Omimi, and Inu Jin have also earned critical acclaim, further cementing the diversity and depth of storytelling coming from MTF alumni.

These achievements highlight a fundamental shift in the media landscape: Viewers are now creators. By empowering young filmmakers to tell their stories, MultiChoice has played a pivotal role in this transformation. The work of MTF alumni proves that authentic African stories, told by Africans, have the power to lead the way in global entertainment.

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Entertainment

When the Music You Know Becomes a Story You Can Watch

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“Wait… this song has a video?”

It’s a moment most of us know too well. You’re watching TV without a plan, just letting it play in the background, when a song you’ve loved forever comes on. You know it by heart. You’ve played it on repeat, attached memories to it, maybe even grown with it. Then suddenly, you pause because there it is. A music video. And for a second, you’re genuinely surprised. Not because the song is new, but because you never knew it had a visual world attached to it.

Truth is, a lot of us experience music only through sound. We stream songs, save them to playlists, play them during our quiet moments or loud ones, and move on. Music videos aren’t always part of the journey. Sometimes they don’t pop up on our feeds and sometimes we don’t even think to look for them. So when we finally stumble on one, it feels like discovering something that’s been hiding in plain sight.

Here are a few music channels you won’t want to miss:

Hip TV (Ch 22

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Hip TV isn’t just about playing music videos; it’s a deep dive into the world of artists and their craft. Shows like Top Notch take you beyond the music, giving you the chance to really know the people behind the songs. You’ll discover the stories that inspire their hits, see candid interviews that reveal their personalities, and catch behind-the-scenes moments that make the music feel more personal. Whether it’s learning how a song was made, watching an exclusive performance, or following an artist’s journey, Hip TV turns music into a full experience you can see and feel.

Soundcity (Ch 21) 

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Soundcity brings the energy of live music right into your living room. From electrifying stage performances to intimate interviews, the channel gives you access to moments fans rarely get to see. Behind-the-scenes footage shows the preparation, the rehearsals, and the artistry that goes into creating the hits you love. It’s the kind of channel that makes you feel like you’re part of the music scene itself, witnessing the excitement, the struggles, and the triumphs of the artists who shape your playlists.

Trace Naija (Ch 46) 

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 If discovering fresh, homegrown talent excites you, Trace Naija is where you’ll want to spend your time. The channel highlights rising stars, introduces the songs that are making waves locally, and puts the music you already love into context. You get to follow new artists as they carve their path in the industry, watch their music videos debut, and feel the growth of Nigeria’s music scene in real time. Trace Naija is vibrant, authentic, and full of the kind of musical stories that make you feel connected to the next generation of artists.

Afro Music Pop (Ch 76) 

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When you want visuals and energy to match the beats in your head, Afro Music Pop delivers. From Afrobeat to pop, the channel is a nonstop showcase of colorful, electrifying performances and music videos. Every track comes with visuals designed to make you move, feel, and experience the song in a new way. It’s upbeat, exciting, and full of life—perfect for discovering new hits or enjoying the ones you already know, but now with a visual punch that elevates the music experience.

So the next time a familiar melody hits and you think, “Wait… this song has a video?”, just know that moment of discovery is waiting for you. On GOtv, there’s a channel for every mood, every story, and every kind of music ready to turn the songs you love into experiences you’ll never forget.

To subscribe, upgrade, or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. You can also stream anytime with the GOtv Stream App.

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In Celebration of International Women’s Month, CANAL+ and MultiChoice celebrate African women

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March 6, 2026 – Nigeria

Across Africa and beyond, women continue to shape and elevate the stories that define our societies. In celebration of International Women’s Month, CANAL+ pays tribute to the storytellers, athletes, mothers, creators, leaders and icons whose voices inspire millions of households across the continent.

The African entertainment industry is driven by women, actresses, directors, screenwriters and producers who bring depth and authenticity to every production. From captivating telenovelas and popular comedies to powerful drama series, female talent remains at the heart of the stories most loved by viewers on CANAL+ Group of channels. In sport, women redefine competition and excellence – on the field, behind the mic or in leadership. From football to tennis and athletics, women in sport don’t just participate, they elevate the game and inspire the next generation. 

CANAL+ and its subsidiary MultiChoice have chosen to celebrate them through a dedicated campaign: “We are… because she is.” A 90-second spot, produced in both French and English versions, will be broadcast on the Group’s channels and social media platforms in more than 35 countries across Africa.

Watch the promo here

Throughout International Women’s Month, DStv and GOtv will spotlight female‑led films, series, reality shows and global cultural moments that reflect the brilliance and complexity of modern womanhood.

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Love, Culture, and the New Era of Televised Weddings

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Weddings have always held a special place in African culture. They are more than ceremonies,  they are declarations of love, family, identity, and tradition. From the vibrant colours of aso-ebi to the rhythmic sounds of live bands and the emotional exchange of vows, weddings represent a moment of cultural heritage.

In recent years, weddings have gone beyond physical venues. What was once an exclusive gathering for family and friends has transformed into a shared experience for wider audiences. Social media first opened the door, allowing guests and admirers to witness love stories in real time through Instagram posts, TikTok highlights, and YouTube recaps.

And now, television platforms are taking this even further, giving weddings a new kind of permanence and reach.

High-profile weddings, like the widely celebrated union of Adeyemi Idowu popularly known as Yhemolee (Olowo Eko) and his wife Oyindamola, fondly known as ThayourB, captured massive public attention. Moments from their wedding became a live shared experience on television (GOtv & DStv).

From the high fashion statements to the emotional highlights, viewers were able to feel part of something bigger, a reminder that weddings inspire not just both families but entire communities.

This shift reflects a broader reality: weddings today are content. They inspire conversations about fashion, relationships, lifestyle, and aspiration. They preserve memories in ways previous generations could only imagine. For Gen Z couples, their wedding is no longer just a day, it becomes a story that can be revisited, celebrated, and even inspire others planning their own journey to forever.

Broadcast platforms like GOtv are playing a meaningful role in this transformation. By bringing wedding-related content directly into homes, GOtv is helping audiences experience these moments not just through social media snippets but in real time. 

One of the most notable offerings is Channel 105, The Wedding Channel Africa’s first 24-hour wedding channel, available on GOtv. The channel is fully dedicated to African weddings, lifestyle, and bridal fashion, showcasing everything from dream ceremonies to the realities of married life. Programs like Wedding Police and Wedding on a Budget and shows like 5 Years Later, offer a deeper look into marriage itself, reminding viewers that weddings are just the beginning of a lifelong journey.

GOtv is preserving culture, celebrating love, and inspiring future couples with this channel. It allows viewers to witness traditions from different regions, discover new ideas, and feel connected to moments that might otherwise remain private.

With platforms like GOtv, stories continue to live on screens across Africa, where love, culture, and celebration can be experienced by all.

To upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere. 

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