All DStv and GoTV subscribers in Africa now have access to a new kids channel, called Moonbug Kids Channel, with no advertisements. Moonbug has a wide variety of cartoons, learning and music content on YouTube (in several languages), with tens of millions of subscribers between them.
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The Moonbug Kids Channel on DStv, as an extension, is a preschool entertainment stream. MultiChoice said the Moonbug Kids Channel on DStv and GoTV will feature exclusive, linear, preschool content from the Moonbug portfolio of shows.
“The agreement highlights DStv’s shift in mindset about digital-first content,” MultiChoice stated. According to Georginah Machiridza, MultiChoice group executive head of content strategy and third-party channels, the quality and appeal of digital-first content had improved vastly in the past few years. “Platforms like ours recognise these shows’ benefits in adding value to our customers,” said Machiridza.
Moonbug EMEA and APAC managing director Nicolas Eglau said the channel would be free of adverts and leverage the company’s in-depth knowledge of kids’ viewing habits. “MultiChoice are very selective about the kind of channel that gets on the platform, so for us being on MultiChoice is almost like a quality stamp of approval,” Eglau stated.
The aim from MultiChoice is to is to feature engaging entertainment that not only pacifies but supports children’s development. Ever since the success of Cocomelon on YouTube, many broadcasters have decided to focus on early development content. Cocomelon makes hundreds of millions of dollars per year on YouTube, driven by advertising revenue.
“The schedule will also support families with their daily routines such as mealtimes, playtime, bath time, bedtime, and more,” the broadcaster stated. The channel officially launched on 20 October 2022 and is available in South Africa on all DStv packages, not only to the more expensive packages like many other content types.
