Local Stories, Local Jobs: Multichoice Kenya’s Commitment to Homegrown Content

MultiChoice Kenya (MCK) has pledged to safeguard local content producers from piracy by collaborating with law enforcement authorities, recognizing piracy as a significant threat to local content production.

 During the launch of two new local shows, “Zari” and “Ka-Siri,” on Maisha Magic Plus in Nairobi on Monday, Nzola Miranda, the Managing Director of Multichoice Kenya, emphasized the importance of protecting content from illegal consumption.

“We are actively cooperating with law enforcement authorities to combat piracy and ensure the protection of local content. We are also committed to embracing digital transformation,” said Miranda.

He pointed out that the primary challenge they face currently is streaming piracy, which is more challenging to detect compared to the past when it was easier to identify through physical cables. “About 80 percent of our piracy cases are related to streaming piracy, but we are well-prepared and working with technology, including our parent company, which is at the forefront of technological advancements,” added Miranda.

Miranda also mentioned their development of various technologies to support streaming piracy prevention, acknowledging that it cannot be entirely eradicated. “We have two robust streaming products that cater to streaming technology, right here in Kenya. Currently, 10 percent of our customer base is already streaming our content, and in the next five years, we anticipate substantial growth,” he stated.

According to Miranda, local stories not only create employment opportunities but also reshape narratives. He expressed their satisfaction with the growth of local content.

Multichoice Kenya (MCK) currently leads as the country’s premier pay TV and entertainment provider, operating as a joint venture between MultiChoice Africa and the Kenyan Broadcasting Corporation (KBC). The two newly launched shows will be accessible on Maisha Magic Plus, now available on DStv Access and GOtv Plus, as part of the “Tumefungulia Magic” campaign.

“Ka-Siri,” a telenovela, explores the theme of “the rich also cry.” The story revolves around Zula, an extremely wealthy man killed in a home invasion, leaving behind a home filled with passion, lies, discoveries, secrets, and shocking revelations. The show boasts over 100 episodes and will air every Monday to Wednesday at 19:30 EAT, starting from October 9, 2023.

“Zari” presents a modern Cinderella story following Nina, a young woman whose true family and fortune are concealed from her. The show premieres on October 23, 2023, and will air every Monday to Friday at 20:30 EAT.

Miranda emphasized MultiChoice’s commitment to delivering family-friendly, exceptional entertainment experiences that resonate with viewers and noted the support provided by MultiChoice Kenya to local productions.

The producer of both shows, Rashid Abdullah, expressed gratitude to MultiChoice Kenya for their support of local productions in Kenya, acknowledging the financial challenges that filmmakers face in the industry.

Timothy Okwaro, Channel Director East and Southern Africa, highlighted MultiChoice Kenya’s substantial annual investment in content production and licensing, promising viewers a wide array of exciting shows to choose from. He mentioned that since 2015, they have delivered over 89 shows to customers, with more expected in the coming year as part of the “Tumefungulia Magic” initiative.