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Second, the company invests in local content. Unlike foreign broadcasters that simply re-air international shows, StarTimes produces and sponsors African sports, movies, and news. For example, its partnership with the Kenyan Premier League and local film industries has boosted cultural representation and created jobs for local producers.

Finally, StarTimes contributes to education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it broadcast free remote learning programs across 20 African countries, reaching students without internet access. This demonstrated that pay-TV can serve a public good beyond entertainment. startimes2

Introduction In many parts of Africa, access to affordable digital television has long been a challenge due to high subscription costs and limited infrastructure. StarTimes, a Chinese media company, has emerged as a transformative force. By offering low-cost decoders and flexible payment plans, StarTimes has successfully democratized access to entertainment, news, and educational content across the continent. Second, the company invests in local content