French media powerhouse CANAL+ and global streaming giant Netflix have expanded their strategic partnership to include 24 Francophone African countries, highlighting the continent’s growing importance in the global streaming market. Initially launched in France and Poland in 2019, this collaboration will now enable CANAL+ to become the first operator in Sub-Saharan Africa to distribute Netflix as part of its service offerings. Beginning in July, subscribers across these regions will be able to access Netflix content directly through their CANAL+ subscriptions, simplifying user access and broadening content reach.
The move strengthens CANAL+’s position as a top content aggregator in Africa, where it already offers more than 400 live channels—28 of which are tailored to African audiences. By integrating Netflix’s globally popular titles like Stranger Things, La Casa de Papel, and Lupin, along with African productions such as Anikulapo, Blood & Water, and Kings of Joburg, CANAL+ enhances its value proposition. The partnership reinforces its “super-aggregation model,” which combines premium local and international content under one platform.
For Netflix, this marks a critical step in expanding its footprint across the continent. Despite economic hurdles and recent price hikes in key markets like Nigeria and South Africa, the company remains committed to Africa, having invested $175 million between 2016 and 2022. Collaborations with African storytellers such as Kunle Afolayan and Mo Abudu have helped produce original content that appeals to both African and global audiences. Netflix’s leadership believes this partnership will enable them to connect with even more French-speaking African viewers.
This extended alliance reflects a broader trend of rising competition and interest in Africa’s streaming sector. With internet access improving and a growing, youthful population, the continent is becoming increasingly attractive to digital entertainment providers.
CANAL+ has doubled down on this momentum with acquisitions like Senegal’s Marodi TV and its bid for MultiChoice. As new players like MTN prepare to launch their own platforms, the CANAL+-Netflix collaboration aims to offer a powerful blend of local relevance and global appeal for African consumers.