Orange is currently in exclusive negotiations with Verdoso, a French investment firm, regarding the potential sale of its media services subsidiary, Globecast. This move could significantly impact broadcasting across Africa.
This announcement follows closely on the heels of Canal+’s recent acquisition of MultiChoice, which led to the discontinuation of the Showmax service, underscoring the rapid changes occurring within the African media sector.
Globecast, which is wholly owned by Orange, specialises in providing comprehensive broadcast and distribution services. It leverages satellite, fibre, and IP technologies to serve television channels, rights holders, and platform operators worldwide.
Established 24 years ago, Globecast has played a vital role in facilitating major global events, including the Africa Cup of Nations, the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the Tour de France, and the G7 summit.
In Africa, the company has expanded its footprint, particularly through a key facility in Johannesburg, South Africa, that offers hybrid connectivity and local insights.
“Through a hybrid infrastructure that integrates satellite, fibre, and IP, along with a suite of end-to-end managed services, Globecast empowers broadcasters to simplify their operations, manage distribution costs effectively, and reach audiences across diverse networks, from satellite packages to OTT and streaming platforms,” Orange stated.
Globecast’s operations across Africa span from North Africa, where it partners with Arabsat, to West Africa, where it collaborates with the Senegalese telecommunications company Sonatel and the national broadcaster RTS Senegal. The company also plays a crucial role in supporting live sports coverage for major events such as AFCON and in providing TV Everywhere OTT solutions to expand viewer access across digital platforms.
Orange, which serves nearly 180 million customers across Africa and the Middle East, indicated that the decision to divest Globecast is part of a strategic refocusing effort.
“This potential transaction presents an opportunity for Globecast to secure a strategic shareholder capable of bolstering its next-generation offerings and enhancing its standing in a rapidly evolving market,” the company explained.
Verdoso, based in Paris, specialises in acquiring mid-sized companies and aims to provide the capital and strategic direction Globecast needs as it adapts to the changing media landscape.
For African broadcasters and viewers, the sale could herald a new phase of investment and innovation in content distribution, even as traditional models grapple with challenges posed by global streaming trends and regional consolidation.
