The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has invited public comments on a proposed transfer of licenses from MultiChoice Group Limited to Groupe Canal+, a development that could significantly reshape Uganda’s pay-TV market.
The application, jointly filed by MultiChoice Uganda Limited and GOTV Uganda Limited, seeks regulatory clearance for a change in control following Groupe Canal+’s bid to acquire the remaining 54.8 percent of MultiChoice Group Limited.
The French media conglomerate already controls 45.2 percent of the company.
If approved, Canal+ would assume full ownership of MultiChoice Group Limited, thereby gaining indirect control of MultiChoice Uganda and GOtv Uganda.
UCC clarified, however, that local shareholding in both subsidiaries would remain unchanged despite the shift in parent ownership.
Analysts say the deal could expand Canal+’s reach across Africa, where competition in pay-TV is intensifying amid growing demand for premium sports content, digital streaming, and localized programming.
For Uganda, the move could translate into new investments, wider content offerings, and potentially more competitive subscription pricing.
Under the Uganda Communications Act, UCC is required to weigh public interest before granting approval for such transfers.
The regulator has therefore called on members of the public to submit written views within 14 days of the notice.
Submissions may be delivered physically to UCC’s offices on Spring Road, Bugolobi, or emailed to its licensing address.
