By Aduragbemi Omiyale

Worsening macroeconomic and consumer conditions in Africa have continued to have a negative impact on companies operating on the continent, with a prominent pay-TV firm, MultiChoice Group, losing about 8 per cent of its subscriber base in one year.

Details of its financial statements for the 2025 fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, showed that MultiChoice subscriber base went down to 14.5 million from 14.9 million in the previous year, driven by a weak consumer environment across markets as well as preference for alternatives.

However, despite these headwinds, the organisation delivered ZAR3.7 billion in cost savings, well ahead of the revised ZAR2.5 billion target set at the interim stage and almost double the ZAR1.9 billion saved in FY24.

The company said a disciplined approach to inflationary pricing, with increases of 5.7 per cent in South Africa and an average of 31 per cent in local currency in Rest of Africa, also helped to mitigate the impact of subscriber losses and supported 1 per cent year-on-year (YoY) organic revenue growth, influenced by pricing and new product growth.

On a reported basis, revenues declined by 9 per cent to ZAR50.8 billion, primarily due to an 11 per cent drop in subscription revenue, as well as the impact of currency headwinds, and the deconsolidation of the NMSIS insurance business from December 2024.

Trading profit increased by 20 per cent before accounting for the investment in Showmax, the impact of currency weakness and M&A activity.

After incorporating Showmax’s trading losses and ZAR5.2 billion in foreign currency revenue losses, and partially offset by the ZAR3.7 billion in cost savings, trading profit on a reported basis declined to ZAR4.0 billion.

In the period under review, MultiChoice performed well in its video entertainment segment, with new products and services delivering strong growth.

It grew its revenue from DStv Internet by 85 per cent, as KingMakers delivered a 76 per cent growth in constant currency and DStv Stream rose by 48 per cent, with Showmax active paying customers increasing by 44 per cent.

Importantly, the group returned to a positive equity position through a combination of cost savings, a stabilisation in currencies, and the accounting gain on the sale of 60 per cent of its shareholding in its insurance business (NMSIS) to Sanlam.

The chief executive of MultiChoice Group, Mr Calvo Mawela, while commenting on the results, said, “Our performance reflects both the challenges we’ve faced and the resilience of our teams.

“While macroeconomic pressures and currency volatility have weighed on our results, our disciplined execution, cost management and investment in new long-term growth opportunities position us well for the future.

“We remain focused on being Africa’s entertainment platform of choice. Our strategy is shaped by developments in our industry such as changes in technology which are driving shifts in consumer behaviour, as well as the impact of a rise in piracy, streaming services, and social media.”

By Adedapo Adesanya

Top Nigerian food and beverage company, Rite Foods Limited, has used the 2025 World Food Safety Day to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of food safety, quality, and consumer wellbeing.

Themed Food Safety: Science in Action, this year’s observance emphasizes the critical role of science, innovation, and collective responsibility in ensuring the food we eat is safe.

“At Rite Foods, this theme resonates deeply with our operational philosophy, where food safety is not just a goal but a culture deeply ingrained across all levels of our organization,” the organisation said in a statement shared with Business Post.

“Food safety is more than a priority for us, it’s a culture we live every day,” said Mr Seleem Adegunwa, Managing Director/CEO of Rite Foods Limited. “From sourcing raw materials to production, packaging, and distribution, we apply global best practices backed by science, innovation, and a team that is passionately committed to excellence.”

In line with the global observance, Rite Foods also organized a week-long series of internal activities aimed at raising awareness, reinforcing hygiene practices, and fostering personal responsibility among its workforce.

These included interactive sensitization sessions, handwashing demonstrations across shifts, cross-departmental discussions, and food safety pledges written and displayed by employees. Staff also participated in a company-wide food safety quiz to reinforce their knowledge and boost engagement.

The company took time to recognize the often-unsung heroes of its food safety system, its Quality Control team, whose diligence ensures that every product leaving the production line adheres to internationally recognized standards.

Backed by certifications such as ISO 22000:2018 and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Rite Foods say it continues to set the benchmark in delivering safe, high-quality products to Nigerian consumers, from the bold Fearless Energy Drink and refreshing Bigi range, to the satisfying Rite sausages and juicy Sosa fruit drinks.

“This World Food Safety Day and beyond, Rite Foods remains committed to ensuring that science, quality, and a shared sense of responsibility continue to drive progress,” the company added.

As the aroma of delicacies fills the air and the long weekend stretches out ahead, it’s the perfect time to kick back, relax, and enjoy premium entertainment for everyone in the home. Whether you’re spending the holiday with your family, enjoying some alone time, or looking to keep the kids engaged while you take a breather, GOtv has curated something special for you this festive period.

Here’s What to Watch This Weekend on GOtv:

African Dramas at Its Finest

Unwind this Friday with The Yard and Wings, two gripping dramas filled with emotion, ambition, and powerful storytelling. Perfect for settling in after the day’s celebrations. Also relive the legacy of one of Africa’s greatest rulers in the Season 1 rerun of Shaka iLembe, airing June 7th & 8th. It’s a visually stunning historical epic that’s as educational as it is entertaining, all on Africa Magic Showcase (Ch. 11).

UEFA Nations League Showdowns

Get ready for a super Sunday of elite European football as the UEFA Nations League reaches its thrilling conclusion. Don’t miss the 3rd place match and the final of the UEFA Nations League, live on SuperSport Football (GOtv Ch. 61), as four of Europe’s finest teams fight for pride, glory, and that all-important silverware. With national pride on the line and the pressure at its peak, expect nothing less than top-tier football at its finest.

Nigerian Idol – The Live Shows Keep Heating Up

Nigerian Idol is in full swing; after two electrifying weeks of live shows, the competition is now more intense than ever. Catch the energy and talent on full display this Sunday at 7 PM on Africa Magic Showcase (Ch. 12) and Africa Magic Family (Ch. 2) as the country’s brightest rising stars take on the stage once again, giving it their all for a shot at stardom, from jaw-dropping vocals to unforgettable performances and each contestant bringing in their A-game.

For The Kids

Keep the kids entertained with Sofia the First and Bluey on Disney Junior (Ch. 82). Sofia and Bluey show that heart, humour, and a little creativity can turn any moment into something magical. With lessons in friendship, family, and growing up, this delightful show is perfect for young viewers. Also catch Henry Danger on Nickelodeon (Ch. 87). Older kids and tweens would be hooked on superhero missions, school drama, and a ton of laughs.

Let GOtv be your festive companion this long weekend, providing you with a worthwhile experience. Whether you’re laughing with family, bonding over a movie, or just chilling solo. Go ahead, find your spot on the couch, and make the most of the long weekend.

You can also stream the GOtv Stream app available on the Play Store and App Store. Stay connected by dialling *288# or using the MyGOtv App to manage your subscription.