MultiChoice eyes more Malawian content

Malawian filmmakers and content creators could get more opportunities to showcase their work on DStv as MultiChoice plans to increase investment in local productions.

The commitment comes as the pay-TV provider marks 30 years in Malawi, with its Chief Executive Officer Mvuzo Dzingwa saying the company wants to strengthen its connection with audiences through stories that reflect their lives and experiences.

Speaking in Blantyre on November 4, 2026, during the anniversary celebrations, Dzingwa said MultiChoice had recognised the importance of local productions through its experience across the African continent.

“We are actually the best at telling African stories. The customer base has also responded quite positively to that,” he said.

Dzingwa said the company wants to work more closely with Malawian filmmakers and content creators, adding that local productions need stronger collaboration to overcome challenges facing the creative industry.

“I don’t think MultiChoice can grow on its own without the industry coming on the same journey. I think it’s about time we revisit the discussion as an industry,” he said.

He said the company was also considering opportunities to work with local entrepreneurs and transfer production skills to help improve the quality and volume of content available on its platforms.

The anniversary celebrations also coincided with changes to DStv subscription packages under the Expect More (Expect+) campaign, which has seen the company restructure its offerings in response to concerns about affordability.

The revised packages include a Starter option costing K15,000. Dzingwa said the changes were informed by customer feedback, with some households struggling to afford existing subscription options.

“We have been receiving feedback from our customer base that they want to be able to watch content. However, not every family can afford the different packages,” he said.

He added that customers on discontinued packages would be automatically migrated to the new options without having to make changes themselves. Those moved from the former Access package to Starter, for example, will pay K15,000 from their next payment date.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology has welcomed MultiChoice’s commitment to local content, saying Malawian stories deserve a wider audience.

In a speech delivered during the celebrations, the ministry said local productions can strengthen national identity, create jobs and develop skills among young people.

“Malawi is rich in culture, talent, heritage and creativity. The stories of our communities, our entrepreneurs, our artists, our athletes and our everyday citizens deserve to be told, not only to Malawians but to audiences across Africa and the world,” the ministry said.