DStv is a joke - Multichoice's decision not to enrich lives with AFCON2023 broadcast sparks criticism

DStv had stated it won't show the AFCON. | X/@CAF_Media

DStv is a joke - Multichoice's decision not to enrich lives with AFCON2023 broadcast sparks criticism

Izuchukwu Akawor 16:07 - 03.01.2024

The 2023 AFCON will kick off in 10 days, but it won't be broadcast to Africans on DStv.

Pulse Sports Nigeria can confirm that the announcement by Multichoice that they would not broadcast the 2023 African Cup of Nations, AFCON, has been met with widespread disappointment and criticism across Nigeria and Africa. 

DStv, the satellite TV service owned by Multichoice Group, released a statement according to various sources 10 days before the start of the competition in Cote d’Ivoire. 

DStv’s no AFCON show

In the statement, the satellite TV provider noted that their SuperSport channels will not be airing the AFCON on their stations because they failed to secure the rights.

It added that they will, however, cover the continental showpiece through partners via their free-to-air service channels.

AFCON 2023 in Ivory Coast | X/@CAF_Media

However, their statement has not gone down well with Nigerians and Africans, who were looking forward to enjoying their various national teams.

Reactions on social media from Nigerians and other Africans expressed frustration over the move. Many criticized DStv for denying viewers across the continent the ability to watch one of the biggest sporting events in Africa despite their high charges. 

Some pointed out the irony that while DStv touts its African roots but is unwilling to air the games of the continental tournament. There were calls to boycott the service in protest of what was seen by many as a tone-deaf decision.

Here are some of the reactions led by Nigerians, who took to their social media accounts on X.com, formerly Twitter, to blast the South African group for denying majorly viewers from sub-Saharan African the chance to enjoy the AFCON.  

Super Eagles of Nigeria have gone 10 years without winning the AFCON. (Photo Credit: Imago)
https://twitter.com/the_Lawrenz/status/1742556376428110064

The 2023 AFCON will get underway on January 13th, with Nigeria's Super Eagles taking on Equatorial Guinea on January 14th.

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