Econet Media takes over Viasat 1, name to change to Kwesé Free Sports

African media network Econet Media and MTG (Modern Times Group), a leading international digital entertainment group today announced the conclusion of the sale of MTG’s Ghanaian free-to-air terrestrial channel Viasat 1 and Modern African Productions (MAP) to the Econet Media Group. Econet Media acquires all MTG assets in Ghana as well as MAP’s operations in Ghana and Nigeria as part of this deal and will retain all staff.

The process will now begin to officially rebrand Viasat 1 to Kwesé Free Sports, Econet Media’s premium free-to-air sports channel within its Kwesé TV network. Kwesé Free Sports is Africa’s first truly Pan-African free-to-air sports channel which is available in 19 countries of which five; Kenya, Rwanda, Malawi, Uganda and now Ghana, have the full 24/7 channel.

Focussed on premium sports programming, the channel boasts some impressive international sports content most of which is exclusive to Kwesé. The exciting programming line-up includes the Premier League, NBA, NFL, Formula 1and many other leagues.

The entry of Kwesé Free Sports represents an industry first in Ghana where the local FTA industry has focussed on general entertainment programming with few, if any options for sports programming outside of pay tv. The addition of Kwesé Free Sports to Ghana’s FTA industry will add a new and exciting dimension to the local FTA industry by giving viewers more diversity and choice.

Commenting on the acquisition, Group Chief Executive Officer and President of Econet Media Joseph Hundah said “We are excited to bring Kwesé TV to Ghana. Kwesé is fast becoming a leading source for the latest in sports and sports fans in Ghana can look forward to some exciting programming on Kwesé Free Sports. This acquisition marksa significant milestone for the growth of our business and Ghana is an important market for us as we expand our offering across the continent”.

Viewers can look forward to a refreshed channel with the very best in sports entertainment featuring some familiar faces as well as brand new programming delivering the best sports shows, latest news, highlights and live action from across the globe. Kwesé Free Sports promises great entertainment for the whole family. The channel can also be viewed on the Kwesé App which is available for download on both iOS and Android.

For more information on the programming schedule please visit www.kwesesports.com