The Uganda Communication Committee (the Commission) was established under section 4 of the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103 (the Act) as the regulator of the communications sector in Uganda with mandate to among others monitor, inspect, licence, supervise, control, promote and safeguard interests of consumers and providers of communications services in Uganda.

The Commission licensed Multichoice Uganda Limited to hold a Subscriber Management license and a Public Service Provider Landing rights license. The Commission also licensed GOTV Uganda Limited to hold a Public Service Multiple Stream license and Public Infrastructure Provider license.

Multichoice Africa Holdings IPV currently holds 85% shares in Multichoice Uganda Limited and holds 85% shares in GOTV Uganda Limited. Multichoice Africa Holdings IPV is wholly owned by Multichoice Group Holdings Limited. Multichoice Group Holdings Limited is also wholly owned by Multichoice Group Limited.

Groupe Canal+ currently holds 45.2% of its shares in MultiChoice Group Limited and is now interested in purchasing the reminding 54.8% shares.

In accordance with Section 43 of the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103, and Regulation 102 of the Uganda Communications (licensing) Regulations, 2019, MultiChoice Uganda Limited and GOTV Uganda Limited applied to the Commission for approval of transfer of their licenses by way of change in control from MultiChoice Group Limited to Groupe Canal+.

If approved, the proposed transaction will result in Groupe Canal+ acquiring 100% shares in MultiChoice Group Limited, and consequently, against indirect control in MultiChoice Uganda Limited and GOTV Uganda Limited. The shareholding in Multichoice Uganda Limited and GOTV Uganda Limited shall remain unchanged.

In accordance with section 39(2) (d) of the Act, the Commission is required to conduct public interest before determining whether or not to approve the proposed transfer of licenses.

The public is therefore requested to provide written comments, if any, regarding the aforesaid applications.

Comments should be sent to the address below within fourteen (14) days from the date of this notice.

UGA/DA COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION