eMedia launches Openview Stream as Africa's first independent FAST platform

EMedia has officially launched Openview Stream, which the company describes as Africa's first independent Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) platform. The service extends the group's entertainment ecosystem beyond traditional broadcasting to deliver premium live television and streaming content free of charge to audiences across the continent.

The move represents a shift in eMedia's growth strategy, marking its first meaningful digital expansion outside of South Africa, according to TechCentral. While the company has spent recent years positioning itself as a free-TV counterweight to MultiChoice with domestic assets, Openview Stream aims to capitalize on increasing broadband connectivity and smart television adoption across Africa.

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It builds on the established Openview brand, which eMedia states has transformed free television access for millions of households in South Africa. By extending that viewing experience into digital streaming, eMedia is moving into what it describes as one of the world's fastest-growing digital entertainment markets.

Strategic Partnership and Technology

The platform was developed in collaboration with RunnTV, eMedia's strategic OTT and FAST technology partner. TechCentral reports that RunnTV is a joint venture in which eMedia is a significant investor.

By using RunnTV's proprietary technology, eMedia intends to provide a digital distribution service for broadcasters and content owners. This allows partners to expand their reach via mobile devices and Connected TVs, creating new avenues for audience growth and sustainable advertising revenue, according to African News Agency.

"Openview Stream represents another important milestone in eMedia’s evolution as one of Africa’s leading entertainment businesses. Building on the success of Openview, we are extending one of our strongest consumer brands into the streaming market, ensuring audiences can continue to enjoy quality entertainment through a free, accessible viewing experience."

Khalik Sherrif, CEO of eMedia, via Enca

Sherrif added that together with RunnTV, the company is creating a service that delivers value for viewers, broadcasters, advertisers, and content creators while making premium entertainment freely accessible.

Manish Sinha, Founder and CEO of RunnTV, described Africa as one of the most exciting growth markets for the future of television. He stated that the combination of eMedia's market expertise and RunnTV's technology creates a scalable service designed specifically for African audiences, as reported by Ameyawdebrah.

Market Availability and Content

The service offers a curated selection of African, regional, and international channels designed to reflect the diversity of the continent's audiences. Programming focuses on local relevance and established entertainment brands. Because the service is funded by advertising, it remains free to viewers.

Despite the Openview brand's established presence as a leading free satellite television platform in South Africa, the streaming service is not currently available in that home market. TechCentral noted this omission as significant given the brand's South African roots.

The initial rollout focuses on seven markets:

• Botswana
• Ghana
• Kenya
• Mauritius
• Namibia
• Rwanda
• Zambia

Expanding the Entertainment Portfolio

Openview Stream is the latest addition to a broad portfolio managed by eMedia, which connects millions of viewers through various broadcast, satellite, and digital platforms. The group's other assets include:

• e.tv: A free-to-air television broadcaster in South Africa.
• Openview: A free satellite television platform in South Africa.
• eVOD: A premium streaming service.
• eNCA: A 24-hour news channel.

The launch is part of a long-term digital growth strategy. According to The Star, the group intends to expand its geographic footprint, channel portfolio, and content offerings over the coming months.

What to Watch Next

Following the initial launch in seven countries, eMedia has announced a phased expansion strategy to enter additional African markets. The company intends to continue strengthening its position as Africa's leading independent FAST streaming destination through these upcoming expansions.