Telecommunications giant MTN has launched a new digital entertainment platform, One TV, as part of its expansion beyond traditional telecom services.
The platform is designed to improve access to video content and create opportunities for content creators, broadcasters and advertisers. It will be rolled out gradually across MTN markets in Africa.
According to the company, One TV combines local productions, live television channels and international content under one service. However, viewing options will vary by country, with users able to access free-to-watch content, ad-supported viewing, pay-as-you-watch options and subscription-based plans.
MTN said the initiative is aimed at addressing one of the major barriers to streaming in Africa — payment limitations. Customers in supported markets will be able to pay using airtime, mobile money and other local payment methods.
The company described the launch as part of its broader strategy to evolve from a traditional telecom operator into a digital services provider.
In recent years, MTN has expanded into fintech, cloud services, digital platforms and enterprise solutions, with entertainment now emerging as a new focus area.
Speaking on the development, MTN Group Chief Commercial, Strategy and Transformation Officer, Selorm Adadevoh, said entertainment is becoming a key gateway into the digital economy.
“Entertainment is increasingly becoming an important gateway to digital participation. Through MTN One TV, we are leveraging the scale of our connectivity, fintech, and digital capabilities to make relevant content more accessible while creating new opportunities for Africa’s creative and digital economies,” he said.
MTN believes its large customer base, connectivity infrastructure and mobile money ecosystem give it an advantage in distributing digital content across the continent.
The company enters a competitive streaming market that already includes global players such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, alongside local platforms. However, MTN is betting on localisation and accessibility to reach underserved audiences.
This is not MTN’s first move into digital entertainment, as it has previously partnered with companies such as Sony Pictures Television to distribute content and also shut down its earlier super app, Ayooba.
