MultiChoice Marks 30 Years of Transforming Zambia’s TV, Technology and Creative Economy
MultiChoice Zambia is celebrating 30 years in the country, marking a milestone that has reshaped Zambia’s media landscape, boosted the creative economy and accelerated access to digital technology.
Reflecting on the journey, MultiChoice Zambia Managing Director Leah Kooma said the company’s impact goes far beyond entertainment, driving innovation, jobs and culture. “It has been transformational. The Zambia of 1995 and today are worlds apart in how people access information, connect to global culture and share local stories,” she said.
MultiChoice introduced satellite broadcasting to Zambia in the mid-1990s, opening the door to reliable, modern television services. As technology evolved, the company expanded access with GOtv for affordable viewing, launched DStv/GOtv Stream and Showmax for online content, and introduced mobile apps for flexible viewing anywhere and anytime.
According to Kooma, these platforms have allowed Zambians to join global conversations in news, sport, education, documentaries and entertainment. “Digital access has empowered knowledge and shaped a more connected society,” she noted.
Three decades of investment have fuelled the growth of local productions, taking Zambia from a handful of TV shows to popular, award-winning content. Channels such as Zambezi Magic have become home to major local dramas and reality shows such as Mpali, Zuba, Makofi, Mungoma, Ubuntu, Ten Tamanga Street and Date My Family Zambia.
At the centre of this development is the MultiChoice Talent Factory academy in Lusaka. The academy trains young filmmakers through practical courses, mentorship and hands-on production experience. Graduates are now shaping the industry, with filmmaker Cosmas Nga’ndwe winning an Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award this year for Best Indigenous Language Film. Kooma said this highlights how far local storytelling has come.
The growth of Zambia’s film and TV industry has created jobs in production, advertising, events, hospitality and technology. MultiChoice has also invested heavily in staff development, with many employees rising from customer service and technical support to leadership positions.
The company has also built strong working relationships with ZNBC and free-to-air broadcasters, helping to expand the reach of Zambian culture to wider audiences. “We see ourselves as a long-term development partner, growing talent, investing in technology and putting customers at the heart of everything we do,” Kooma said.
With new productions, digital platforms and creative talent emerging every year, MultiChoice Zambia aims to continue elevating local storytelling while delivering world-class viewing experiences.
“It is a privilege to help shape Zambia’s media identity,” Kooma said. “For us, it is not just about what happens on screen. It is about empowering people, communities and the nation.”
