MTN Group, Africa’s largest mobile operator, has announced a strategic partnership with UK-based video software company Synamedia to develop a new streaming platform aimed at mobile and fibre subscribers across Africa. This initiative aligns with MTN’s ongoing transformation from a traditional voice and data provider into a comprehensive technology and media company, offering fintech, digital, and entertainment services.

MTN’s Group Chief Commercial Officer, Selorm Adadevoh, said the aim is to change how people watch video on the continent.

“We see a unique opportunity to transform video consumption in Africa with high-quality, accessible and relevant content.”

he said in a joint statement with Synamedia.

The new service will use Synamedia’s cloud-based technology to deliver both live TV and video-on-demand. It will offer various ways to watch: monthly subscriptions, free content with adverts, and ad-supported channels with more personalised advertising. MTN and Synamedia have confirmed that content will be tailored to each country, depending on local viewing habits.

Synamedia also expressed confidence in the venture. In the joint release, the company said,

“Together, we will enable MTN to deliver a streaming platform that meets the evolving expectations of viewers in Africa, while offering flexible monetisation options that benefit content creators and advertisers.”

This move places MTN in direct competition with established players in Africa’s streaming market. MultiChoice’s Showmax already has a strong presence, while international giants like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV are expanding their reach across the region. MTN’s new platform will need to stand out in terms of content, user experience, and pricing.

With a subscriber base of 291 million across 16 African markets, MTN aims to leverage the continent’s rapid smartphone adoption and improving telecommunications infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for video streaming services.

The forthcoming service will utilise Synamedia’s cloud-based technologies to deliver both linear television and video-on-demand content. The platform is designed to support various monetisation models, including subscriptions, ad-supported content, and free streaming channels featuring targeted advertising. Additionally, each market will benefit from a curated content strategy, tailored to local cultures, languages, and viewing habits.

The partnership is part of MTN’s wider digital push. In the past, the company has launched services like MusicTime! to test its media capabilities. By joining forces with Synamedia, which has experience building scalable cloud-based TV platforms around the world, MTN hopes to fast-track its entry into the video streaming space.

No official launch date has been announced yet.