DStv is celebrating 30 years of shaping South Africa’s television landscape, connecting millions of households, and telling stories that have become part of the national conversation.
From its beginnings in October 1986 with M-Net broadcasting a few hours each night, to the launch of DStv on 6 October 1995 as the second digital satellite service in the world and the first outside the United States, the platform has grown alongside the country itself. By 2005, DStv had reached one million subscribers. By 2010, that number grew to 2.4 million families. Today, over 14 million homes across Africa, from Johannesburg to Lagos to Nairobi, include DStv in their daily routines.
DStv launched with just 16 channels in 1995. Today, it offers 142 channels, with packages to suit different budgets and viewing habits. Options include DStv Access from R99 per month, Family and Compact, and Premium from R699 per month. Customers can watch via satellite or stream online through DStv Stream.
Over the years, DStv has become home to stories that reflect South African life. From Carte Blanche, Egoli, and KTV in the early years, to kykNET, Africa Magic, Mzansi Magic, Mzansi Wethu, Mzansi Bioskop, and kykNET & Kie, the platform has built a rich legacy of local storytelling. Recent productions such as The River, Big Brother, and Shaka iLembe continue this tradition. The platform’s content has also earned international recognition with International Emmy nominations for four consecutive years for Reyka, Two Sides, Die Brug, School Ties, Chasing The Sun 2, and Play Room Live.
Sport has also been a cornerstone of DStv. SuperSport, which also celebrates 30 years, has delivered iconic moments including Bafana Bafana’s AFCON win in 1996, the Springboks’ four Rugby World Cup triumphs, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and Olympic gold medal victories from Josia Thugwane to Tatjana Smith in 2024.
DStv has consistently evolved alongside its viewers. The platform introduced Africa’s first personal video recorder, launched HD broadcasts, BoxOffice, the DStv app, and now DStv Stream to meet the changing needs of its audience.
“As we celebrate 30 years, we are proud of the role DStv has played in South African homes,” said Byron du Plessis, CEO of PayTV South Africa at MultiChoice, a CANAL+ company. “Our story has always been tied to the country’s own, from the early days of Open Time to today’s iconic local shows and unforgettable sporting moments. Thirty years on, our commitment remains the same. We will continue to connect South Africans through great content, trusted service, and real value, while reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of our nation.”
With CANAL+ as a strategic partner at the MultiChoice Group level, DStv is entering a new chapter of investment in local stories, live sport, and innovation, ensuring it continues to meet the changing needs of viewers.
“While technology and viewing habits have evolved, our purpose remains the same: bringing people together through content that matters,” added du Plessis.
To mark this milestone, DStv will offer special promotions in November and December, allowing more South Africans to celebrate the anniversary across its platforms.