Multichoice’s weekly plan traps poor in endless cycle

DDM News

MultiChoice Uganda has introduced a new lineup of weekly subscription packages for DStv and GOtv users.

According to Diaspora digital media (DDM), the initiative, named the “Ka Weekie” campaign, is being marketed as a solution for affordability and flexibility.

However, critics argue it’s another way for the pay-TV giant to profit from struggling consumers.

The packages were announced on Thursday, with options starting at just UGX 5,000.

The new plans allow viewers to pay for seven days of access instead of committing to monthly subscriptions.

While the company claims it offers more convenience, others view it as a strategy to tighten the noose on low-income households.

Rinaldi Jamugisa, the PR and Communications Manager for MultiChoice Uganda, defended the move.

He said the offering is part of the company’s long-standing commitment to align with customer needs.

“We understand that our subscribers require affordable and flexible options to keep up with their favorite shows and programs,” Jamugisa stated.

But some subscribers argue that cutting packages into shorter terms could ultimately cost more per month.

They believe the weekly plans are a disguised increase in pricing when calculated over a longer period.

Despite the concerns, the weekly packages are now live and cover various tiers on both platforms.

For DStv, the Lumba package is priced at UGX 5,000, Access at UGX 14,000, Family at UGX 22,000, and Compact at UGX 37,000.

GOtv users can choose from Lite at UGX 5,000, Value at UGX 7,000, Plus at UGX 11,000, Max at UGX 17,000, Supa at UGX 22,000, and Supa Plus at UGX 37,000.

Colin Asiimwe, MultiChoice Uganda’s Head of Marketing, claimed the campaign was a response to consistent user feedback.

“We constantly listen to our subscribers, and affordability has been a consistent concern,” he said.

He added that “Ka Weekie” is about giving control to the customer.

But not everyone agrees that weekly billing empowers viewers.

Some believe it creates pressure to continually renew or risk abrupt service disruption.

Others argue that MultiChoice is simply slicing access to justify squeezing more revenue from loyal customers.

The packages are accessible through the MyDStv and MyGOtv apps, USSD code *206#, mobile money platforms, banks, and agents.

Background on DStv and GOtv

DStv is a satellite television service launched in 1995 by MultiChoice Group.

It offers premium content across sports, entertainment, news, and lifestyle, mainly targeting mid- to high-income users.

GOtv, on the other hand, is a digital terrestrial television (DTT) service.

It was introduced as a cheaper alternative, focusing on more budget-conscious viewers.

Both platforms operate widely across sub-Saharan Africa and dominate the pay-TV landscape in Uganda.

Critics often accuse MultiChoice of monopolistic tendencies and frequent price hikes.

Others question the company’s pricing structure, which many say is detached from the economic realities of African users.

By introducing weekly options, MultiChoice seems to offer relief.

But for many, it also raises questions about fairness, transparency, and the true cost of “convenient” entertainment.

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