Speaking on the anniversary, M-Net Africa Managing Director Biola Alabi said the channel's success is a result of a clear vision, solid partnerships with content suppliers, wonderful viewer support, and a vast investment in creating a home for the region's dynamic producers and moviemakers.
"It is one thing to say you're going to create a channel like AfricaMagic Swahili. It is another thing altogether to actually do it. We're pleased that 12 busy months later, we can say that we've learnt some important lessons, taken note of suggested improvements, listened to both our critics and fans; and ultimately grown in experience and understanding."
She says, "The Swahili community has been very generous, supportive and patient with us, encouraging and nurturing the channel from the start. We want to thank them all – viewers, producers, writers, directors, stars and all those people behind-the-scenes who work so hard to keep this beautiful, powerful language alive and thriving."
Since launch the AfricaMagic Swahili team has travelled extensively to build the channel. In January this year, they held a vital stakeholder forum in Dar es Salaam during which local film and TV professionals were advised on key aspects of program acquisition, licensing, and screening. The forum also included discussions on the subjects of contracting, distribution and platform opportunities.
Additionally M-Net invested in a two-day training workshop in Tanzania for producers and other industry personnel to learn new skills and techniques while sharing knowledge and ideas.
AfricaMagic Swahili ( DStv channel 127 ) is screened 24-hours daily. A 6-hour premium program block, that runs from 17:00 – 23:00 EAT daily, is re-screened 3 times more, giving viewers the chance to watch programs they may have missed. A general entertainment channel, AfricaMagic Swahili includes movies, drama, comedy, talk-shows, series and music. Programming is in Swahili but is sub-titled in English for non-Swahili speakers. There is also programming available from other markets, which has been dubbed into Swahili to ensure that Swahili audiences are also able to access programming from across the continent.
The channel is available on the DStv Access, Family, Compact, Compact Plus and Premium bouquets. It is offered in Swahili speaking countries such as Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi, Congo and the DRC. AfricaMagic Swahili is also included on the exciting new GOtv offering for audiences in Kenya.
Applauding the channel MultiChoice East Africa Regional Director Stephen Isaboke is positive about its future. "We know that this channel is one that our subscribers have asked for, enjoy greatly and want to see grow. It's relevant and it's dynamic. We are confident that it will continue to evolve in line with audience expectations and will remain one of the most compelling TV channels in this market."
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