Recent data from the Communications Authority (CA) shows a slow growth in the number of TV subsscriptions in Kenya. The data covers the first 3 months ending March 2024 and show the total number of subscriptions stood at 6.373 million, up from 6.367 million the previous quarter ending December 2023. This represents a 0.1% growth quarter over quarter.
This growth, though modest, signifies the increasing demand for digital content and the expansion of digital television (DTT) and direct-to-home (DTH) services.
Here are a breakdown of the key numbers:
- Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT): Both GoTV and StarTimes experienced growth in this segment. GoTV saw a 1.2% increase in subscribers, while StarTimes grew by 0.2%.
- Direct-to-Home (DTH): The DTH segment presented a mixed picture. While Azam and MultiChoice (DSTV) recorded growth rates of 3% and 2.2%, respectively, Wananchi (Zuku) experienced a significant decline of 21.6%.
These trends highlight the evolving preferences of Kenyan consumers, who are increasingly prefer digital and on-demand content. The growth in DTT subscriptions suggests that terrestrial digital TV continues to be a popular choice as it offers an array of channels without the need for satellite equipment.
The rise in digital broadcasting services is closely tied to changing consumer preferences. With more people opting for a variety of channels and on-demand services, digital platforms have become the go-to for many households. This shift aligns with global trends toward digital consumption, driven by the need for convenience, diversity in content, and better picture quality.
Digital platforms offer advantages including easy access to a wider range of programming and interactive features that enhance the viewing experience.