eBusiness Weekly
Pauline Mhuka-Magavu
HARARE – The Econet Group has announced that streamline its direct-to-home satellite television service – Kwese TV.
“Having been in the African market for almost two years, Kwesé has taken time to monitor subscriber viewing habits and preferences. These insights have guided our efforts to provide a product range that is aligned to market needs. Kwesé has seen a noticeable shift in consumer viewing habits namely; video consumption on mobile phones, and increased uptake of OTT services across our markets. It is with these changes in mind, that Kwesé is proud to announce its new streamlined product offering,” said the group in a statement today.
“In focusing on three services (Kwesé Free Sports (KFS), Kwesé iflix and Kwesé Play) Kwesé will streamline its satellite television service. Our new bouquet will carry selected sports and general entertainment programming for a minimal fee. Customers who have already paid their subscriptions for the month of November, or in advance, will received a refund.”
The third party channels are available on the bouquet, as well as the removal of Kwese branded sports and general entertainment channels.
Additionally, the broadcaster’s new bouquet will carry FTA, religious, and free news channels which will be available to viewers for a minimal fee.
Kwese was launched at a time when the global pay television industry was in transition. Business models were evolving from traditional content right to linear broadcast channels.
Premium content rights will be moving towards digital media platforms.
Kwese has managed to build a satellite TV business with 11 markets at present.
“Repositioning is perfectly timed in response to market trends”, says Joe Hunda, Group President and Chief Executive of Econet Media.
He added that these changes will safeguard the future success of their business as they continue to make an indelible impact on Africa’s media industry.
Mr Hunda said that the revised business strategy will also ensure that Kwese TV continues to remain competitive within the industry.
“Refocusing our business offering across markets, is a strategy move which aligns OTT business and video-on-demand trends”
“This renewed focus on digital services will see us providing new compelling offers for our customer’s enjoyment,” he added.
Kwese play is a leading-edge video streaming service with more than 200 sports, entertainment, kids and new channels including Red Bull TV, NBA, YouTube, TED and Bloomberg.
