The review would see the broadcast network focus on three core services Kwesé Free Sports (KFS), Kwesé iflix and Kwesé Play.

Econet Media would streamline its direct-to-home satellite television service.

The change would also witness the reduction of third party channels available on the bouquet, as well as the removal of Kwesé branded sports (excluding KFS) and general entertainment channels.

The broadcasters new bouquet would carry FTA, religious, and free news channels which would be available to viewers for a minimal fee, as the broadcaster would waive monthly subscription fees. Kwesé subscribers who have already paid their subscriptions for the month of November, or in advance, would receive a full refund.

Mr. Joe Hundah, Group President and Chief Executive of Econet Media stated that the business repositioning is perfectly a step in response to the new market trends.

We believe these changes would safeguard the future success of our business as we continue to make an indelible impact on Africa’s media industry.

“The revised business strategy will also ensure that Kwesé TV continues to remain competitive within the industry. Refocusing our business offering across markets, is a strategic move which aligns our business to OTT and video-on-demand trends which present significant growth opportunities for Kwesé. This renewed focus on digital services will see us provide new compelling offers for our customers enjoyment.”

He also pointed out that the change will also enable Econet Media to come out with new programmes.

“Additionally, through the development of the Kwesé Studios content hub, Econet Media will now have a legitimate claim to being the home of African content, as we will now create a place where Africans can tell their own stories and shape their own narrative.”

“Kwesés entry into the market had a game changing impact on the media industry. With these changes, we believe Kwesé will continue to positively disrupt the industry for the benefit of African consumers, as we continue to provide affordable premium content through digital media services,” he added.

Kwesé has built a satellite TV business with presence in 11 markets, a free-to-air business across 27 countries, delivered the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia across Africa to a network of 115 sub-license broadcasters across 37 countries  reaching over 200 million households, acquired a controlling stake in a leading mobile video-on-demand service, and launched its own OTT service Kwesé Play.