TechAfrica News’ Post

🚀 Exciting News in MENA! 🚀 beIN MEDIA GROUP has teamed up with Synamedia to launch a groundbreaking targeted advertising platform in the Middle East and North Africa. Starting in Iraq, Lebanon, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, this new service will roll out to additional markets later this year. With Synamedia Iris, beIN can offer tailored ad inventory, enabling both local and global brands to reach specific audiences more effectively. By 2025, this capability will extend to beIN's streaming services, ensuring cohesive campaign management across digital and broadcast media. Bahadir Karalar, beIN's Director of Sales and Services, stated, “Partnering with Synamedia allows us to attract brands to this new form of targeted advertising, delivering the highest and most effective viewership.” Guy Southam Synamedia's Director of Advanced Advertising, added, “beIN's adoption of Synamedia Iris marks a shift in MENA TV advertising, offering precise targeting for local businesses and global brands.” Stay tuned for more updates as CABSAT unfolds! #neuco #beINMediaGroup #Synamedia

News alert! beIN MEDIA GROUP is breaking new ground in MENA's TV advertising scene with the launch of targeted ads using Synamedia Iris.   For the first time, local and global advertisers can reach specific audiences across beIN’s linear channels in Morocco, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iraq, and Lebanon, offering a renewed proposition to advertisers and optimising ad spend alongside the world’s greatest sporting moments.   Bahadir Karalar, Director of Sales and Services at beIN MEDIA GROUP, commented, “We chose to partner with Synamedia because its addressable advertising solution is proven to deliver uplifts in ad revenues elsewhere in the world. With best-in-class advertising technology and our unrivalled premium sports and entertainment content, we are confident that we have a compelling proposition that will attract both global brands and home-grown organisations to invest in this new form of targeted advertising which delivers the highest and most effective viewership.”   Read the full press release here: https://lnkd.in/eqXkcRvc #addressableadvertising #targetedadvertising #payTV #streaming #sportsmedia

Since #TikTok’s launch in Saudi Arabia in 2019, we have invested heavily in the local ecosystem to create value, support local content and creators, and help brands both large and small flourish by reaching new audiences and enable business growth. As we continue to evolve our commitment to the Kingdom, we are thrilled to announce our initial strategic partnership with the MBC Group. This MOU aims to leverage our combined expertise in creating and delivering world-class content tailored specifically for Saudi audiences. By uniting MBC’s strength in producing high-quality Arabic and locally-relevant content with TikTok’s innovative platform and its vibrant community of over 1 billion users, we’re set to inspire and entertain users like never before. Our collaboration will focus on producing engaging content across various genres—including entertainment, lifestyle, and music—ensuring relevance and resonance with local audiences. Furthermore, the MOU includes a collaboration with MBC Media Solutions (MMS), to operate as the official advertising partner in Saudi Arabia. This partnership will provide advertisers in Saudi Arabia with locally relevant digital advertising solutions, and explore innovations that span TV and online video. In the spirit of Always Day 1, we are excited to further inspire creativity and bring joy to the Kingdom with our partners at #MBC. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/dF6Kjy3m Cc Sam Barnett Ahmed Al Sahhaf

TikTok’s Power Move in Saudi Arabia: A Cultural Game When global brands decide to plant their roots in a region, it’s not just about showing up and replicating a successful strategy with a bit of customization. Sure, that’s the standard playbook, but let’s be real—it’s only scratching the surface. What truly sets brands apart is their ability to listen, understand the culture at its core, and adapt with flexibility, agility and humility (The last one is super important) 🤨 Here’s the thing: a lot of global brands, especially American ones, come into the middle east markets with great processes, big budgets, and strong hiring. They succeed in generating revenue—until they don’t. That’s because they often approach it with a sense of arrogance, sticking to what worked elsewhere without truly immersing themselves in the local culture. And yes, they rake in profits for a while, but eventually, they hit the wall of diminishing returns. Now, let’s talk about #TikTok. This is where they have being nailing it—over and over again. Not just in the Middle East, but in the UK, and even the US. And this latest move in #SaudiArabia is a prime example of how to do it right. Today Shant Oknayan, ByteDance/TikTok Global Business VP announced a partnership with MBC GROUP, a brand that’s been part of the Middle Eastern cultural DNA for decades—is nothing short of genius. MBC isn’t just media; it’s family time, nostalgia, and a shared experience for every Gen X, Gen Y, and millennial who grew up in the region. By teaming up with MBC, TikTok isn’t just extending its reach—it’s entering the living rooms and hearts of Saudi families. It’s weaving itself into the culture. Saudi Arabia is a powerhouse. It has one of the largest populations in the region, a strong spending power, and a deep connection to its traditions. The numbers also back it up. With 87% of internet users aged 16-64 on TikTok in Saudi Arabia they already have a massive penetration among younger audiences and this move with MBC will extend its influence to older generations who’ve been more skeptical of the platform. It bridges the gap, bringing TikTok into the broader cultural conversation. This partnership shows TikTok’s ability to understanding the culture, listening to the chatter on the streets, and acting on it. It’s not just about applying a global playbook; it’s about creating relevance across generations. This partnership also positions TikTok to offer advertisers locally relevant solutions through MBC Media Solutions (MMS). Think innovations that blend traditional TV with digital platforms, creating opportunities to engage audiences in a way that feels authentic and impactful. Did you what MBC growing up 😊, did you sat with your dad watch MBC 4? and fought with your mom who wanted to watch MBC Bollywood 🤣 What’s do you think of this- move and what could be their first move ? #TikTok #MBCGroup #SaudiArabia #CulturalRelevance #GlobalExpansion #PowerMoves

ARTICLE: Reaching New Heights: Proven Techniques for Successful FM Radio Broadcasting. India’s FM radio industry has undergone significant transformation, and recent techniques are paving the way for broadcasters to achieve even greater reach and listener engagement. Key innovations include adopting digital platforms, enhancing hyperlocal content, and exploring partnerships with new media formats. Radio networks like BIG FM and Radio Mirchi have embraced digital audio storytelling and online radio, allowing them to reach wider audiences while catering to their preferences for on-demand audio and smart speaker integration. This approach has strengthened their presence across traditional and digital channels, catering to listeners both in India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. AI has also begun to play a transformative role in radio broadcasting. FM channels are using AI-driven algorithms to create personalized content, making broadcasts more relevant to individual preferences. Mirchi, for instance, introduced AI-powered shows in the UAE, highlighting how artificial intelligence is shaping new experiences in the industry. Despite these advancements, the heart of successful FM radio broadcasting in India lies in hyperlocal content and regional engagement. Stations are focusing on rural and Tier II and III markets, which contribute a significant share of their audience. By offering content in regional languages, FM channels not only broaden their listener base but also attract local advertisers looking for targeted marketing options. Finally, the economic scope for FM broadcasting remains strong, driven by ad revenue from diverse sectors. With government support and initiatives to expand FM broadcasting, the future for India’s radio industry looks promising, blending traditional broadcast charm with cutting-edge digital transformation. #FMRadio #RadioBroadcasting #DigitalRadio #AIInRadio #RadioInnovation #HyperlocalContent #RegionalRadio #SmartSpeakerRadio

Viewer behaviour across the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar is witnessing a significant shift as highly engaged audiences are now watching YouTube on Connected TV (CTV), according to data that the platform revealed during its flagship advertiser event called YouTube Brandcast. YouTube also launched the beta version of partnership ads, allowing brands to connect creator content to their Google Ads on YouTube, while unlocking new ad formats such as a co-branded format on DemandGen campaigns where a brand’s logo appears alongside the creator’s channel logo. Sharing his insights in an exclusive conversation with Campaign Middle East, Tarek A., Director of YouTube MENA and Regional Director of EMEA Emerging Markets, said, "We’re on the cusp of another major transformation, one that sees user-generated content cast to the largest screen in homes everywhere – and YouTube is at the epicentre of this shift.” #ConnectedTV #UserGeneratedContent

Recently, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) convened a pivotal meeting with industry stakeholders on July 9, underscoring collaborative efforts to refine regulatory frameworks and address sector-specific concerns. MIB has unveiled crucial updates to the Draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill, 2023, signaling significant developments in India's digital media landscape. Here’s a breakdown of the latest amendments: 1. Expanded Government Authority: Under the revised bill, the central government gains enhanced powers to direct internet service providers and social media platforms, reinforcing regulatory oversight. 2. OTT and Digital News Exemptions : Notably, OTT platforms and digital news services are now exempt from criminal penalties for non-compliance with government notification thresholds, reflecting a nuanced approach to regulation. 3. Content Codes Review: The MIB is actively exploring tailored program and advertising codes for traditional broadcasters versus on-demand streaming services, aiming to accommodate diverse media formats effectively. 4. Regulation Scope: Discussions are ongoing regarding the bill's applicability to social media news content, highlighting ongoing efforts to address digital media’s evolving landscape comprehensively. Potential Impacts: - Nuanced Regulation: Differentiated guidelines for various media formats could lead to more tailored regulatory approaches. - Collaborative Compliance: Increased cooperation between tech firms and regulatory bodies may redefine industry-government dynamics. - Content Dynamics: Potential shifts in content standards between traditional and digital media could shape creative freedoms and consumer experiences. These updates underscore India’s proactive stance in adapting regulatory frameworks amid rapid digital transformation. While aimed at fostering industry growth and ensuring compliance, questions persist regarding implementation nuances and their impact on creative expression. How do you envision these changes influencing India's digital media trajectory? Will they spur innovation or pose fresh challenges? Share your insights below! #broadcastingbill #OTT

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒: 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚’𝐬 𝐅𝐌 𝐑𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐨 𝐍𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐒𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐫𝐨𝐰: 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐅𝐌 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 11 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐍𝐚𝐝𝐮. Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan has announced that the ministry is inviting applications for new private FM radio stations in 11 cities in Tamil Nadu. These cities currently do not have private FM stations. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) has initiated the next phase of FM radio expansion, inviting applications for private FM radio stations in 11 key cities across Tamil Nadu. This marks a significant step in bridging gaps in radio coverage and enhancing access to diverse, localized content. 𝐓𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥 𝐍𝐚𝐝𝐮 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐩. The initiative covers prominent cities like Madurai, Salem, and Tiruchirappalli, as well as semi-urban areas. By focusing on Tamil Nadu, the government aims to provide a platform for regional voices and bolster local culture through FM programming. 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐏𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐌 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧. This phase is part of the government's broader plan to auction 730 FM channels in 234 cities across India. The third phase emphasizes bringing FM services to underserved regions, creating opportunities for local broadcasters and businesses. The move is expected to drive regional advertising and generate employment. 𝐄-𝐀𝐮𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬. The selection process involves an ascending e-auction model, ensuring transparency. Interested parties must complete the pre-qualification requirements, with training sessions scheduled to familiarize them with the bidding system. Licenses will be granted based on the highest bids, with payment deadlines and compliance standards set to streamline the process. Objectives and Vision By expanding FM radio, the government aims to: Increase the penetration of radio services. Support local content creation. Foster regional economies through new advertising platforms. 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 Applicants must submit their bids by mid-November 2024. The Ministry plans to conclude the auctions and issue operational licenses by early 2025 This development is a promising leap for Tamil Nadu’s media landscape, offering fresh opportunities for creative voices, advertisers, and listeners to connect like never before. For additional details, visit the Ministry’s official guidelines. #FMRadio #RadioExpansion #IndianMedia #BroadcastingIndia #RadioRevolution #TamilNaduUpdates #RegionalVoices #Madurai #Salem #Tiruchirappalli #MediaGrowth #RegionalAdvertising 

ARISE News Channel Expands Reach Across Southern Africa In a significant stride towards consolidating its position as a premier broadcaster in Africa, ARISE News Channel has announced its expansion into Southern Africa, marking its live presence in ten additional countries, including South Africa. The news network, renowned for its Emmy-winning coverage, is now accessible to viewers in Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe through Multichoice/DSTV Channel 416. This expansion underscores ARISE News Channel's commitment to providing comprehensive coverage of the continent's diverse landscapes, cultures, and developments. With this move, the network's reach extends to 54 African countries, reaffirming its status as a leading broadcaster on the continent. Fauziya Ali Mohammed, PMP, Chief of Staff to Chairman and Editor-in-Chief, emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating, "This movement to Southern Africa cements ARISE News Channel’s position as the leading broadcaster in Africa with independence and clear thinking." The channel aims to showcase Africa's multifaceted narrative, spanning business, politics, technology, commerce, science, sports, entertainment, and fashion, while projecting the continent's best to global audiences. Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of ARISE News Channel, articulated the network's ambitious vision for the future, asserting, "We are determined to celebrate the best of Africa and tell the African story in the global marketplace." Obaigbena reiterated the network's commitment to launching in all countries worldwide, positioning ARISE News Channel as a global ambassador for African perspectives and achievements. Operating around the clock from studios in Lagos, Abuja, Johannesburg, Cape Town, London, and New York, ARISE News Channel provides viewers with timely and insightful coverage of regional and international developments. In addition to its broadcast presence, the channel can be accessed across various platforms, including Sky Channel 516 and Freeview (Channel 136) in the UK, the Centric Channel in the USA, and the Hot Bird platform reaching Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Streaming audiences worldwide can also tune in through the ARISE Play platform. The collaboration with Multichoice/DSTV to extend its reach into Southern Africa reflects ARISE News Channel's strategic vision to become a prominent voice in global media, shaping narratives and perceptions about Africa in the digital age. As the network continues its expansion, it remains dedicated to championing Africa's emergence on the world stage and contributing to the continent's narrative in the evolving landscape of global communication.

News Flash: India is a market of and, not or, pitches Viacom18 Media Private Limited's Kevin Vaz at Ficci Frames Kevin Vaz, CEO - Broadcast Entertainment, Viacom 18, said that despite a digital boom, traditional media in India is also experiencing steady growth, showcasing India's diverse media consumption habits. At FICCI Frames 2024, Vaz, who is also the Chair, FICCI Media and Entertainment Committee, said that while this might appear to be a paradox when viewed through a singular global lens, this is the truth of India – a market of and, not or.