Africa Channel Enters Distribution Agreement With Sky

The Africa Channel, the US-based television network showcasing the rich and diverse perspectives of Africa's people, has entered into a distribution agreement with Sky, the leading multi-channel television platform in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
The announcement was made today by James Makawa, co-founder and CEO of The Africa Channel.
The Africa Channel, marking its international debut, will launch on August 20, in Sky's Style & Culture Mix. The channel will launch with two weeks of series previews to provide viewers the opportunity to sample its programming and begin its original program schedule on September 3rd. The Africa Channel has acquired a number of new series and specials spanning multiple genres to premiere in conjunction with its launch on Sky, including the scripted drama 'Jacob's Cross', the reality performance competition programs 'Dance Africa' and 'Project Fame Africa', music series 'Urban Massive', sports highlights series 'DHL Sports Africa', the behind-the-scenes film program 'Cinema Moments' and several specials, including a music profile of Nigerian superstar Femi Kuti. The programs will also air on The Africa Channel in the US, where next month the network will mark its second anniversary on the air.
Regarding the announcement, Makawa commented: "The Africa Channel delivers a diverse schedule that reflects the extraordinary culture of Africa and we are very pleased to be partnered with Sky on the channel's exciting launch in the U.K. Our channel, along with the new programs we've acquired for this important milestone, further enhance our commitment to provide our viewers in the U.K. with the best English language programs that the African continent has to offer."
Primetime dramatic series, Jacob's Cross, starring Hlomla Dandala and Moky Makura, is the epic story of one man's quest to build the next great African business empire. In the reality dance competition program Dance Africa, contestants are evaluated by five discerning judges assigned to select the most talented Freestyle dancer on the continent.
Lastly, The Africa Channel also will air several upcoming music specials, one of which features famed Nigerian Afrobeat musician Femi Kuti. Additional specials will include 'Umoja', the internationally-acclaimed, loud, colourful and jubilant stage musical celebrating South African music - from the earliest rhythms to the popular modern genre known as Kwaito.
(DS/SP)