New DStv rates draw ire

Kenyans have taken to social media to contest increased rates by Multichoice on DStv, with the fee for its premium bouquet increasing from Sh8,200 to Sh9,400. FILE PHOTO | NATION MEDIA GROUP 

By LILIAN OCHIENG
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Kenyans yesterday took to social media to contest higher rates announced by MultiChoice on DStv.

This followed a notice by MultiChoice that it had raised the subscription fee for its premium bouquet to Sh9,400 up from Sh8,200.

MultiChoice attributed the increase to the depreciation of the shilling against the US dollar putting pressure on the firm to increase its rates effective October 1.

Social media users were quick to react to news of the higher rates.

“#DSTV is trending for all wrong reasons. We wrote to @DStv_Kenya on Monday. No response as yet. @DStv must review its pricing #ConsumerWatch,” twitted the Consumers Federation of Kenya.

The increase comes after DStv reviewed its content, moving the major English Premier League games from SuperSport 3 (Compact Plus) to SuperSport 5. This makes Super Sports available only on the premium package.

Kenyans on Twitter reacted with a mix of anger and humour.

@TRENDINGKENYA wrote, "When the dollar was on a low, we never heard DSTV lowering their subscription".

Lee_Mwiti @LMAfrican said, "@DStv_Kenya: You are having a laugh. Premium bouquet in SA is R699, or Sh65,300; that's Sh5,400 monthly. And you charge Kenyans Sh9,400?

Alstar..@jeffjinakubwa wrote, "If you are using Bamba and yet still complaining about the new hiked rates by DSTV.. God is watching you".

@CarolRadull said: "I'm also looking for an alternative to @DSTV_Kenya 9,400/- per month. I love live football but affording it is another story! DSTV Kwaheri."