The Broadcast And Digital Media Convention – East Africa 2025, set to take place on 27 – 28 May, 2025 in Kampala, Uganda, will spotlight one of the fastest-growing sectors in digital broadcasting: Over-the-Top (OTT) content streaming and Video-On-Demand (VOD) services. As East Africa continues to experience rapid digital transformation, the demand for on-the-go, personalised content consumption is reshaping how audiences engage with media.
Hosted by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and convened by the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) in collaboration with Broadcast Media Africa (BMA), the convention will provide a key platform to assess the growth, challenges, and opportunities of the OTT and VOD landscape across the region.
OTT and VOD platforms have emerged as major disruptors in East Africa’s broadcasting and entertainment industry, offering audiences greater content diversity, accessibility, and flexibility. The availability of internet-enabled devices and the rise of mobile broadband penetration have accelerated the shift from traditional broadcast TV to digital streaming platforms.
From local content aggregators to global streaming giants, the East African market is seeing a surge in investment and competition. The demand for affordable, mobile-friendly content and tailored subscription models drives innovation. Additionally, local and regional players are exploring ad-supported streaming models (FAST – Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) to provide cost-effective content solutions to a wider audience.
Speaking on the significance of OTT and VOD in East Africa, Mr Benjamin Pius, CEO of Broadcast Media Africa, emphasised the importance of developing sustainable models for digital content distribution:
“The rise of OTT content streaming and Video-On-Demand services presents an incredible opportunity for East Africa’s media landscape. However, for the sector to reach its full potential, industry players must collaborate on building scalable digital infrastructure, creating compelling local content, and establishing revenue models that work for both content providers and audiences. The Broadcast And Digital Media Convention – East Africa 2025 will serve as a crucial forum to address these challenges and unlock new growth opportunities for broadcasters, content creators, and digital media investors.”
As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the success of OTT and VOD services will depend on how well industry stakeholders innovate, localise content, and enhance user experience. The Broadcast And Digital Media Convention – East Africa 2025 will be an essential gathering for those looking to stay ahead in the region’s fast-changing digital entertainment sector.
For more information and to participate in the event, visit the event website here.