MTN Group has opened a commissioning window for African-produced short-form and premium video content for MTN One TV, its pan-African streaming service launched in June 2026 as the successor to MTN Vu.
The commissioning briefs span several formats, including micro-dramas comprising around 30 two-minute episodes, six- to eight-part limited series, 13-part scripted and unscripted series running 45 to 60 minutes, and feature-length productions of 60 to 90 minutes.
Producers will have opportunities to pitch projects at Durban FilmMart on 28 September and MIP Africa, held during FAME Week Africa in Cape Town, on 5 October. MTN requires lead producers to operate through a registered company and have at least seven years of industry experience.
The commissioning call comes as MTN points to significant growth in short-form video consumption. The group estimates the global short-form video market could reach R423 billion by 2030 and says global short-drama app downloads increased by more than 140% between the first quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2026.
MTN also highlights the rapid adoption of short drama in Southeast Asia, where short-drama apps recorded about 300 million downloads in the first quarter of 2026, compared with fewer than 150 million downloads for conventional over-the-top streaming services.
For One TV, the primary target markets are Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana and Zambia, with the service particularly targeting audiences aged between 18 and 34.
The platform’s monetisation model also provides an important element for prospective producers. One TV combines free ad-supported viewing with subscription and pay-as-you-watch options, with payments supported through airtime and Mobile Money.
This provides MTN with an established carrier-billing infrastructure for content monetisation, potentially reducing reliance on bank cards in markets where card penetration remains limited.
However, MTN has made clear that participation in the pitching process does not guarantee commissioning, investment, licensing or acquisition.
