By Evance Chisiano

Blantyre, October 17, Mana: Malawi Digital Broadcast Network Limited (MDBNL) and Static Computers Inc. on Thursday engaged Content Service Providers (CSP) in the broadcast industry to brief them on a mobile video streaming application, Kanema Online which is meant to give viewers more options to access TV programmes, events and videos on computers, tablets, smart TVs and phones on top of expanding viewership and improving on CSPs revenue generation

The MDBNL and Static Computers Inc. met with CSP namely Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) Times TV, Mibawa, Balaka-based Luntha TV and Chanco TV of Zomba at Sun Bird Mount Soche where MDBNL Chief Executive Officer, Denis Chirwa assured the broadcasters that Kanema online has value to CSP as viewers access TV programmes on subscription fee.

“Content service providers will improve as their contents will be accessible to viewers while viewers will have easy access to various TV programmes.

“Broadcasters or content service providers will therefore get value for their content. This is also meant to improve broadcasting in Malawi,” the MDBNL Chief Executive Officer added.

The Blantyre meeting was a continuation of information sharing and consultation with CSPs after the MDBNL and Static Computers Inc. engaged CSPs in central region on Kanema online in September this year.

MDBNL is a public entity mandated to provide digital distribution services to all licensed content service distributors.  

Static Computers Inc. Director, Letson Kamangeni said the meeting with the CSP was also meant to make them understand technical aspects of Kanema online, status of integration of local television channels on Kanema Online and how CSP can use the platform to expand content reach.

“You will retain full control of your content whether you want to offer live broadcast or upload an on-demand show. Kanema online gives you flexibility to manage your programme,” he added/

He, however, assured the CSPs and further clarified that Kanema online is not a competitor to broadcasters.

“We are not a TV Station. We want to compliment what you do,” Kamagira who is also Kanema online Operation Manager told the CSP

He disclosed that the video streaming application, Kanema online took four years to develop and once fully rolled up it will increase audience reach.

“Kanema online will be accessible to everyone, everywhere, every time and on every network” according to Kamagira.

Chanco TV Station Manager, Gracious Mulinga said the engagement meeting was ideal and relevant as it provided space for the CSPs to understand how CSPs can use the platform to expand content reach, understand Kanema online’s mission and vision top of appreciating Kanema online’s economic benefits.

“This is a good initiative. There will be good revenue generation once this comes into full swing,” he added.

The CSPs that attended the meeting were yet to brief their respective stations on the Kanema online before it was launched.