MTN Group, Africa’s largest mobile operator, is partnering with UK-based video software company Synamedia to launch a new cloud-powered streaming platform aimed at millions of broadband and mobile users across the continent.
Ralph Mupita, MTN Group CEO, announces in a statement seen by Technology Times that the mobile phone group is spearheading the move as it is tapping into Africa’s surging appetite for digital video by developing a platform offering live TV and on-demand content that is being tailored to local cultures, languages, and viewing habits.
South Africa’s MTN Group is the owner of MTN Nigeria, the largest mobile network operator by subscriber base in the country.
The initiative is forming part of MTN’s expansion into the over-the-top (OTT) video market, where content is streamed directly over the internet, bypassing traditional satellite and cable providers. The new platform is being designed for mobile-first consumers—many of whom are relying on smartphones as their primary access point to the internet.
Ralph Mupita, MTN Group CEO, announces in a statement seen by Technology Times that the mobile phone group is spearheading the move as it is tapping into Africa’s surging appetite for digital video by developing a platform offering live TV and on-demand content that is being tailored to local cultures, languages, and viewing habits.
“We’re seeing a unique opportunity to transform video consumption in Africa with high-quality, accessible, and relevant content,” Selorm Adadevoh, Group Chief Commercial Officer at MTN Group, says “This partnership enables us to leverage cutting-edge technology and deep customer insights to enhance entertainment experiences and drive digital inclusion.”
Synamedia, which powers video platforms for major telecoms and broadcasters globally, is building the MTN solution on its cloud-based video delivery technology, providing tools for seamless content management and personalised viewing experiences.
“Thanks to MTN’s leadership and innovation, smartphone owners across Africa will be enjoying innovative linear TV and on-demand video,” Paul Segre, CEO of Synamedia, says. “By leveraging our integrated, cloud-based portfolio, MTN is set to create a groundbreaking platform that drives new revenues and digital engagement.”
The yet-to-be-named platform is introducing multiple monetisation models, including subscription video-on-demand (SVoD), free streaming channels with targeted ads, and ad-supported content. This approach is addressing affordability challenges in African markets, where high data costs and pricing barriers often hinder access to premium streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
MTN is currently operating in 16 African countries with 291 million subscribers, and the new platform is being positioned as a digital inclusion tool capable of bridging the entertainment access gap in underserved regions.
Statista is forecasting Africa’s OTT video market to hit $4.32 billion in revenue by 2025, with SVoD contributing $3.04 billion. User penetration is projected to grow from 32.1% in 2025 to 40% by 2029, with 579.2 million users expected across the continent.
While a launch timeline and pricing details are yet to be announced, MTN and Synamedia are saying the service will prioritise relevance, affordability, and accessibility as key pillars of its streaming rollout.
The collaboration, according to the mobile phone group, is also aligning with broader goals to bridge the digital divide and position MTN not just as a telecoms operator but as a digital platform leader driving Africa’s shift towards online content consumption.
The rollout date and pricing details for the streaming platform have not yet been announced.
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