On 1 March, the Discovery Channel will simultaneously launch Discovery World on DStv and be available for the first time in the general entertainment section of the DStv Electronic Programme Guide (EPG). Discovery World is being launched in 61 African countries, including South Africa.
“Discovery is now the biggest broadcaster in factual entertainment across Africa,’ says Caleb Weinstein, SVP and General Manager of Emerging Markets for Discovery Networks EMEA (Europe Middle East Africa). “The move into general entertainment section in the EPG is testament to the true power of Discovery Channel’s programming ability to entertain global audiences and transcend viewing genres. World class talent present our high-octane, adrenaline fuelled programming. Further channel launches of Discovery World and Discovery HD Showcase have allowed us to enhance our local portfolio.’
In December 2009 the historic launch of Discovery HD Showcase on the DStv HD platform in southern Africa made Discovery the first international broadcaster to offer an entirely HD channel in the region.
Aletta Alberts, Head of Content, MultiChoice says: “The launch of Discovery World and the relocation of Discovery Channel to the entertainment genre, forms part of our ongoing enhancements of the DStv service and will broaden the already wide selection of factual and entertainment content available to our subscribers. Discovery Channel will continue to provide viewers with factual entertainment whilst Discovery World will provide our subscribers with new, high-quality documentary content that they’ve come to expect from the Discovery brand.’
The Discovery portfolio of brands now includes Discovery Channel (general entertainment), Discovery World (leading factual zone), Discovery HD Showcase (tech savvy viewers) and Animal Planet (female audiences).
As of the 1 March Discovery Channel will be available on DStv EPG number 121 and new channel Discovery World will launch on channel number 250.
