As an eMedia platform, Openview Stream says it aims to extend the group's entertainment ecosystem beyond traditional broadcasting, delivering premium live television and streaming content free to audiences across Africa.

Building on the established Openview brand, which has aimed to transform free television access for millions of households in South Africa, Openview Stream aims to mark the next evolution of eMedia's media portfolio by extending that familiar viewing experience into digital streaming across Africa, says the brand.

Developed in partnership with RunnTV, eMedia's strategic OTT and FAST technology partner, Openview Stream combines eMedia's recognised entertainment brands, quality content and deep understanding of African audiences with FAST capability, aimed to create a seamless streaming experience designed specifically for the continent, adds the brand.

The platform launches initially across Kenya, Ghana, Rwanda, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and Mauritius, with additional African markets planned as part of eMedia's phased expansion strategy, says the brand.

Building on decades of delivering entertainment to millions of households, eMedia is expanding into the streaming market with Openview Stream. The service aims to create new opportunities for local authorities, broadcasters, audiences, advertisers and content creators by providing a sustainable, advertising-supported digital ecosystem tailored to African viewing habits, adds the brand.

As an eMedia platform, Openview Stream also aims to support the continued growth of Africa's broadcasting industry by providing broadcasters and content owners with an innovative digital distribution service. Through RunnTV's proven FAST technology, partners can extend their reach across mobile devices and Connected TVs while creating new opportunities to grow audiences and unlock sustainable advertising revenue, says the brand.

Africa is one of the world's fastest-growing digital entertainment markets. Increasing smart television adoption, improved broadband connectivity and growing demand for free streaming services are changing how audiences discover and consume content. Openview Stream says it has been developed with the aim to meet this demand by delivering an accessible, high-quality streaming destination that remains free to viewers.

The platform offers a carefully curated mix of African, regional and international channels, with programming focused on local relevance, established entertainment brands and high-quality viewing experiences that reflect the diversity of audiences across the continent, says the brand.

"Openview Stream represents another important milestone in eMedia's evolution as one of Africa's leading entertainment businesses. Building on the success of Openview, we are extending one of our strongest consumer brands into the streaming market, ensuring audiences can continue to enjoy quality entertainment through a free, accessible viewing experience," says Khalik Sherrif, CEO of eMedia.

"Together with RunnTV, our strategic technology partner, we are creating an African streaming service that delivers value for viewers, broadcasters, advertisers and content creators while making premium entertainment freely accessible across the continent," adds Sherrif.

"Africa represents one of the most exciting growth markets for the future of television. We are proud to partner with eMedia to power Openview Stream through our FAST technology platform. By combining eMedia's established brands and deep market expertise with our technology capabilities, we are creating a scalable streaming service designed specifically for African audiences," says Manish Sinha, Founder and CEO of RunnTV.

The launch aims to mark another important step in eMedia's long-term digital growth strategy. Over the coming months, Openview Stream will continue to expand its content offering, channel portfolio and geographic footprint, aiming to strengthen its position as an African independent FAST streaming destination, concludes the brand.

For more information, visit www.openview.co.za.

*Image courtesy of contributor