StarTimes adds new channels ahead of digital migration

StarTimesStarTimes Media is adding new channels to its platform which will be available on its digital transmission, ahead of Kenya’s planned analogue switch-off next month.

The new channels will include FOX News Channel (FNC), a 24-hour news channel, Star Africa, showcasing African movies, Star Movies and Star One to broadcast new Hollywood movies.

This addition comes two weeks ahead of the analogue switch-off date of December 13, which is currently being challenged in court by a group of media houses.

The High Court hearing set for December 6 which will determine whether there will be another delay to Kenya’s digital migration after two more parties joined three media houses in a petition against the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK).

FNC and Star Africa will come to StarTimes on the Classic bouquet KSh999 ($12) per month on channels 330 and channel 019 respectively, with FNC delivering political, business and breaking news, while Star Africa will air content from South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria.

Also to be offered on the Classic bouquet will be Bloomberg TV delivering financial news and Star One, which will come to StarTimes on channel 014.

Star Movies has been added to the Unique Bouquet, which retails at KSh1,999 ($24) per month and will offer users access to the latest Hollywood releases on channel 011.

Leo Lee, the chief executive officer (CEO) at StarTimes, said: “The addition of these new channels will go a long way in boosting the education and knowledge sharing content for our esteemed customers.

“StarTimes subscribers should expect even more as we progressively monitor consumer taste and review our content to suit the whole family.”

StarTimes said it has more channel additions underway to help Kenyans usher in the festive season with extra special gifts as the country makes the switch to digital TV.