As part of its ongoing strategy to grow its TV operations in key African markets, Wananchi Group, owner of pay TV Zuku, has confirmed plans to venture into Malawi by launching Zuku TV as part of its strategy to grow its TV operations. The move which is being set up at an initial cost of $10 million comes on the backdrop of Malawi’s government successful migration from analogue to digital broadcasting.
Commenting on the new venture, Wananchi Group CEO, Richard Alden noted, “We are excited to unveil Zuku TV in Malawi. We believe through our compelling offering- a wide selection of entertainment channels covering news, sports, movies, documentaries and music we are inevitably contributing to the country’s digital knowledge and economy infrastructure. Our goal is to ensure the majority if not all households in the country have access to our world class digital television content at very affordable subscription charges,†said Alden.
With over 105 channel options now available on Zuku TV, consumers will be treated to many of Zuku TV’s tailor-made channels such as Zuku Africa airing African content, Zuku Life airing documentaries, Zuku Sports, a first of its kind kids channel dubbed Zuku Kids that provides both entertainment and edutainment for children aged between 6 and 12 years and as well as a number of themed movie channels .
Zuku is also making its presence more tangible in the markets in which it operates through sponsorships of various initiatives; In Kenya and Tanzania Zuku has invested $1million in event sponsorship of the annual Zanzibar International Film Festival for 10 years, In Kenya & Uganda, Zuku launched an ambitious inter university basketball tournament dubbed Zuku Basketball league for more than $500,000 investment for 3 years. In Malawi, Zuku TV will be looking to partner and work hand in hand with Malawian artists to give them a platform to promote their talents.
Malawi now becomes the fourth country to have Zuku TV after Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Zuku launched in Nairobi (on its cable network) in 2009 and Direct To Home Services in Kenya and Uganda in late 2011 and Tanzania in 2012.
Wananchi group is also planning to venture into Ethiopia and Rwanda by end of 2014.