
The number of pay-TV subscribers in South Africa fell below seven million for the first time in at least five years, dropping 9.6% from 7.4 million to 6.7 million in the year to September 2025, according to communications regulator Icasa’s latest State of the ICT Sector report.
The decline adds hard regulatory data to the subscriber crisis that has forced Canal+, MultiChoice Group’s new owner, into a strategic reset at DStv, including scrapping the annual price increase and shutting down the Showmax streaming platform.
Over the five-year period from 2021 to 2025, pay-TV subscriptions declined at a compound annual rate of 5.2%, falling from 8.3 million to 6.7 million — a loss of 1.6…
Cultural Festivals: Newspapers often cover cultural festivals and events, promoting
local arts and heritage.

Alley Fiend
Did you knowthis about South Africa? South Africa celebrates its annual Heritage Day on 24 September. On this day, South Africans get together to celebrate their diverse cultures, traditions and beliefs. You’ll most likely find people enjoying a braai (barbecue) and dressed in traditional garb.
Lava Nibbler
Fun South African Fact: For an unforgettable bucket-list activity, search for the famous Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) on safari in one of South Africa’s national parks or private game reserves. A South African safari is an experience like no other!