COVID-19: DStv to launch Africa Easter Channel

The launch follows various restrictions and bans on public gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Africa Easter Channel will be launched on DStv channel 344 on 9 April and will broadcast until 13 April. The channel will feature Christian music and recorded sermons submitted to DStv by various denominations, including Methodist, Anglican and Catholic.

The Africa Easter Channel will feature music videos by renowned gospel artists such as Lebo Sekgobela, Dr Tumi, Hillsong, William McDowell and Rebecca Malope.

“In responding to a rallying call from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies to assist the religious sector, DStv has decided to launch a new, pop-up channel catering for various Christianity groupings,” DStv said.

MultiChoice CEO Calvo Mawela said: “As a responsible broadcaster, we are more than happy to partner with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies as we afford worshippers to observe Easter from the comfort of their homes.

“Across South Africa, over 80% worshippers observe and celebrate the Easter period, hence different and various Christian denominations be will be looked after by the channel.”

TBN Africa managing director Lucky Mbiko said: "We have responded to this call by partnering with churches and some of the biggest gospel artists to bring you the best Easter worship experience to as many viewers as possible.”

Minister of Communications, Telecommunications and Postal Services Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams said the South African government appreciated MultiChoice’s response “to our call for an industry-wide intervention to ensure that religious programming, especially over the Easter weekend, is produced and accessible to millions of South Africans utilising alternative means."

"Communications and digital technologies will play an important role during this disaster period and beyond,” she said.