Celebrating African stories told by Africans

Ten Thousand Stories and more from Africa’s most loved storyteller, MultiChoice

Africa’s most loved storyteller, MultiChoice, is committed to continuing the journey of storytelling for years to come. At the heart of this commitment is the desire to tell stories that resonate with Africans throughout the continent, stories that echo the shared sentiments of triumph, success and growth, stories that share ideals, beliefs and embrace change and encourage diversity. It is through these stories that we can come together as one.

This promise to showcase the best of African storytelling is perfectly captured in the Ten Thousand Stories promo which was launched as part of the recent Multichoice Media Showcase. This creative masterpiece was the brainchild of poet and writer Lebohang Masango. It explores themes around diversity, innovation, local content, international content, sports and a general love for stories.

Brought to life by Masango and other talented African poets, it is an ode to all who have been part of the journey. It celebrates the legacy of MultiChoice and the more than 10 000 stories that have been told over the years.

"I drew inspiration from Maya Angelou and the grand idea explored in most African philosophy. The idea that one individual is amplified when standing as a collective ‘I come as one but, I stand as 10 000’, the core of the poem is around collectivism and collaboration, something storytelling does so well," said Masango.

"Stories are a way of preserving memories and making history and MultiChoice, through its existence, has made history by changing the ritual around coming together. The modes of viewing content may change with technological advancement, however, the essence of storytelling as preserving history does not change.”

MultiChoice has been telling African stories for over 20 years, reaching far and wide across the continent. Its DStv and GOtv platforms have continued to grow over the years, launching numerous local channels with more planned as the group increases its local content investment.

Storytelling plays a critical role in our society. it shapes the hopes and dreams of our youth – it cradles aspirations while positively changing preconceived ideas on what the world has to offer. It is through storytelling that many dreams are expressed and it is through storytelling that our people learn that as much as we are diverse, we are also quite similar.

MultiChoice is determined to continue showcasing unforgettable stories that cater to a diverse audience. At the heart of MultiChoice’s reason for existence is to provide customers with variety and choice. It is with this in mind that the company is focused on enhancing its innovation, value and local entertainment offering.

Great stories either reflect reality or create one. We are aiming to create a reality that is progressive, inclusive and forward-thinking.