Thursday, October 29, 2015

BREAKING. M-Net and MultiChoice shutting down its failed streaming service for Africans living abroad, Africa Magic GO, at the end of November.


M-Net and MultiChoice is dumping its failed streaming service for Africans living abroad, shutting down Africa Magic GO at the end of November after barely a year in existence.

Africa Magic GO (AMGO) cost $8 per month.

M-Net and MultiChoice launched Africa Magic GO in June 2014 as a subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) service just over a year ago in 2014 but is now ending the service.

Africa Magic GO provided African subscribers outside of Africa access to shows ranging from South Africa's Rockville, Dineo's DiaryInkaba, Zabalaza and The Coconuts to Nigeria and Ghana TV fare like Studio 53 Extra, Tinsel and other locally, African produced series and movies.

There's been no statement or announcement from either MultiChoice over the shuttering of Africa Magic GO, or from M-Net's AfricaMagic division, nor any explanation as to why Africa Magic GO is being axed.

Existing Africa Magic GO subscribers were just told in a message that the service is ending at the ending on November 30.


Earlier this year M-Net still talked about how proud it was of Africa Magic GO. "From the aesthetics to the content, Africa Magic GO has given the world Africa's new outfit - one that she's wearing with tremendous pride," said Ken Onwu, Africa Magic GO's product manager at the beginning of this year.

"We have an exciting line-up for this year," said Africa Magic GO.

Now Africa Magic GO is shutting down as suddenly as it started, without any reason why.

Africa Magic GO's quick demise follows Altron's Altech Node in South Africa that was a shocking failure after gobbling up millions of rands in a disastrous venture for the company. The Altech Node existed for less than a year.

Then there's also the struggling VIDI from the Times Media Group also facing a very uncertain future after it too is having major problems. VIDI's financial backer Tiso Blackstar is dumping the underperforming VOD service after its failed to gain traction in the South African market.