These public broadcasters will be acknowledged and celebrated for their role as the dominant force in the African market, where 85% of audiences still actively watch free television.

While the launch of a range of new SVOD services across the continent will be talked about, the business of selling content to Africa’s ordinary linear networks is high on DISCOP Johannesburg 2019’s agenda.

"All the major streaming and pay-tv services will be attending," says Patrick Zuchowicki, general manager and founder of DISCOP. "But, pre-market reports point to strong demand for programming from commercial and public broadcasters. The bulk of the business for the vast majority of content suppliers is still on traditional television."

135+ global and regional content sellers and 150+ African independent content producers will take part in a reconfigured market that will go beyond content selling and buying and also cover the co-production of original content. A total of 250+ programmers, acquisition, commissioning, production and marketing executives from 35+ African countries are also expected to attend seeking both finished content, adaptation rights and projects in development.

DISCOP JOHANNESBURG 2019’s sidebar conference programme will feature thematic sessions that will aim to provide an opportunity for a more dynamic, hands-on learning experience.

Topics to be covered will include content monetisation strategies, the booming animation industry, bringing esports to television screens, the importance of dubbing, the export of original African content, branded content and how to tackle disinformation.

"There is no question that pay-TV penetration, access to mobile television and VOD adoption is on the rise," says Andrew Boozer, DISCOP’s conference director.

"This is why we have designed a conference programme that will help ad-supported TV channels stay at the top of their game and build stronger ties with local talent, up-and-coming producers and advertisers who still think that linear television is the most powerful ad-medium on the continent," Boozer concludes.

For more information, visit www.discop.com. You can also follow DISCOP Johannesburg on Facebook or on Twitter.