Multichoice Group has named Andrea Zappia, a former Sky executive, as the Chairman of Showmax, its streaming platform.
This move aligns with MultiChoice’s strategic partnership with Comcast, aiming to compete with streaming giants like Netflix and boost revenue in Africa.
Zappia, previously CEO of Sky’s new markets and businesses, assumed the role after joining MultiChoice’s board in September.
Showmax, operating in 50 African countries, relaunched with Comcast’s support, and MultiChoice’s CEO, Calvo Mawela, targets a $1 billion revenue in the next five years.
The collaboration with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky focuses on expanding audiences in Africa, with MultiChoice holding 70% of Showmax.
The service, backed by Peacock streaming platform, includes English Premier League content, tapping into the growing demand for mobile services among young Africans.
“The benefit of the partnership between Comcast and MultiChoice is to take international experience and combine that with our African experience – and that makes us very competitive on the continent. The plan is to significantly scale the business,” Showmax CEO, Marc Jury, said in an interview.
