DSTV viewers are in for a major shake-up as two of the continent's biggest entertainment channels, BET Africa and MTV Base, are set to disappear from screens at the start of next year.
Broadcasting giant Paramount has confirmed that the channels will be discontinued on the DStv platform at 9:00am on 1 January 2026, marking the end of an era for African music, culture, and storytelling.
The broadcaster explained that the decision follows a global realignment of its business model as it responds to rapidly shifting audience behaviour and an industry experiencing major disruption. Viewers have increasingly moved toward digital and on-demand platforms, forcing traditional pay-TV providers and content creators to rethink their strategies.
In a formal statement, Paramount said: "Paramount is adjusting its international pay-TV strategy in response to industry-wide changes and evolving audience habits. As part of this review, BET Africa and MTV Base will be discontinued on the DStv platform from 9:00am on 1 January 2026.
"Paramount is proud of the legacy these channels have built and thanks their viewers and partners for their support over the years. Paramount's global channels - Nickelodeon, NickToons, Nick Jr., Comedy Central, and MTV - will remain available to African audiences."
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BET Africa and MTV Base have played a massive role in shaping youth culture, driving conversations, and elevating African talent onto global stages.
Some of BET Africa's most popular shows include Being Mary Jane, Tyler Perry dramas like The Oval and Sistas, Black Tax, and live broadcasts of the BET Awards and BET Hip Hop Awards. The channel has also featured celebrity interviews and lifestyle programmes highlighting African success stories.
Meanwhile, MTV Base brought fans music, dance, and pop culture entertainment, with favourites such as MTV Base Top 10/SA Top 10, Yo! MTV Raps Africa, MTV Shuga, Gqom Nation, Base Hottest MCs, Ridiculousness Africa, and global broadcasts like the MTV Video Music Awards. Its mix of music charts, interviews, and youth-centredprogrammes made it a cornerstone of African entertainment.
Although the removal is a blow, Paramount reassured fans that its remaining channels will continue to provide a mix of entertainment, comedy, kids' content, and international programming. DStv has not yet announced whether replacement channels will be added to fill the gap.
As January approaches, long-time fans are preparing to say goodbye to two iconic channels that shaped memories, broke stars, and dominated playlists for over a decade.
MultiChoice, a CANAL+ company, confirmed the discontinuation of the channels.
"MultiChoice can confirm that BET Africa and MTV Base will be discontinued on the DStv and GOtv platforms from 1 January 2026 at 9:00am CAT, following updates from our channel partner, Paramount.
"Our customers can continue to enjoy other international channels from Paramount, including Nickelodeon, NickToons, Nick Jr., Comedy Central, and MTV.
"We thank Paramount for their continued partnership and look forward to working with them on the remaining channel offerings," the company said in a statement.
