MultiChoice Uganda Ltd & GOTV Uganda Ltd have applied to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) seeking approval for a significant corporate restructuring: the transfer of their operating licenses by way of a change in control from MultiChoice Group Limited to Groupe Canal+.
The application, filed in accordance with Section 43 of the Uganda Communications Act and the Uganda Communications (Licensing) Regulations, 2019, stems from a larger global acquisition. Groupe Canal+, a French media conglomerate which currently holds a 45.2% stake in MultiChoice Group Limited, has moved to acquire the remaining 54.8% of shares.
If approved by the regulator, this transaction would result in Groupe Canal+ obtaining 100% ownership of MultiChoice Group Limited. Consequently, the French group would gain indirect control over the Ugandan subsidiaries, MultiChoice Uganda Limited and GOTV Uganda Limited. It is important to note that the direct shareholding structures of the Ugamian entities will remain unchanged.
In its role as the national regulator, the UCC is now undertaking a mandatory review process. A critical component of this review is the consideration of public interest, as mandated by the law.
To this end, the Commission has officially invited stakeholders and the general public to submit written comments on the proposed transfer. This consultation period is designed to ensure the decision is transparent and considers the potential impact on consumers and the broader communications sector in Uganda.
All comments must be delivered to the UCC within fourteen (14) days from the date of the public notice. Submissions can be sent via email to [email protected] or to the UCC headquarters at Plot 42-44 Spring Road, Bugolobi, P.O. Box 7376, Kampala.
The UCC will evaluate all received commentary alongside standard regulatory considerations before making a final determination on the application.
This raises a critical question for consumers and industry watchers alike: How will Groupe Canal+’s takeover of MultiChoice and GOtv affect Uganda?
