TV5Monde has signed a long-term distribution contract with SES to broadcast three FTA channels to French-speaking and Francophile viewers in sub-Saharan Africa.
It will use the SES-5 satellite to distribute its main channel TV5Monde Afrique, as well as the youth channel TiVi5Monde and the lifestyle channel TV5Monde Style HD.
SES-5 is located at 5 degrees East and provides optimal coverage for sub-Saharan Africa. It currently distributes over 500 local and international channels, 65 of which are in French.
Commenting on the agreement, Yves Bigot, DG of TV5Monde, said: “Thanks to Africa, the French language is being offered a new opportunity to broaden its reach, which is all the more decisive in a digital world where language is becoming increasingly important.
“This partnership with SES Video offers us ideal coverage to reach our numerous viewers and a recognised expertise to broadcast our three channels”.
Ferdinand Kayser, CEO of SES Video, added: “We are delighted to help TV5Monde extend the distribution of its channels across sub-Saharan Africa and, in our own way, contribute to the spread of the French language on this continent.
“TV5Monde’s decision demonstrates the quality of our infrastructure and assets in these countries. Thanks to its powerful and robust coverage, our SES-5 satellite will allow TV5Monde to distribute this new content offer in an optimal manner to cable and IP networks in the region, as well as reach the 3.8 million TV homes equipped with direct reception at 5 degrees East.”
