Uganda: New TV channel to feature music content

Pearl Magic began to air on Monday on DStv channel 161 and GOtv Max channel 304.

“We are excited to introduce Pearl Magic, a channel that is truly Ugandan with a focus on Ugandan entertainment content,” MultiChoice Uganda marketing manager Albert Nga told local media.

“This is going to add value to our DStv subscribers in terms of resonance with a channel that they can claim ownership to. This channel also demonstrates our investment in growing local content that resonates with our subscribers and our continued support to the growth and development of the African entertainment industry.”

Nga said the new channel was restricted to East African countries and would broadcast a range of content such as music shows, movies and drama series. Local music shows include Beyond the Beat, The Code and Jechilli.

Ugandan rapper Sylvester Kabombo welcomed the development. “This is good news,” he told Music In Africa. “As active industry players, we understand that it is to our benefit when more non-biased platforms showcase our content. I am optimistic that this will introduce the Ugandan entertainment scene to a bigger audience.”

Kabombo also encouraged Ugandan artists to produce music videos. “Claims that the media is biased is a lame excuse for artists not to produce music videos. Apart from TV, there are several Internet platforms that can be used to promote music and reach viewers.”

Afro-fusion musician Giovanni Kiyingi said he was pleased about the launch of the new channel. “This is a fantastic platform to promote different arts in Uganda,” he said. “I think everyone is excited to find out what’s going to be aired on the channel.

"I will be happy to watch different art forms and music genres on Pearl Magic. On the other hand, if the selection team is not well-informed, the channel will be just like any other local TV channel that airs selective music content,” he said.