Artist’s rendition of Eutelsat 8 West B. Photo: Thales Alenia Space

Eutelsat Communications entered into a master service agreement with Strong Roots Ethiopia Broadcasting Service for Ku-band capacity on a 36 MHz transponder on Eutelsat’s EUTELSAT 8 West B satellite. The capacity will enable Strong Roots to launch a new, free to air Direct-to-Home (DTH) platform covering Ethiopia as well as Ethiopian diaspora in zones within the satellite’s footprint, notably the Middle East.

Strong Roots Ethiopia Broadcasting Services is part of the Ethiopian-owned Strong Roots Group.  The new DTH platform will distribute news, entertainment, education, kids, documentary, movies, and sports content in Standard-Definition (SD) or High-Definition (HD).

The EUTELSAT 8 West B satellite has dedicated coverage of Ethiopia on its East beam, and is part of the 7/8 degrees West video neighborhood. The satellite was launched in 2015.

Commenting on the deal, Tsegaye Alemayehu, Chairman of Strong Roots said: “We are delighted to be supported by Eutelsat in our quest to provide a high-quality broadcast experience to viewers across Ethiopia and beyond. As indicated by its name, Strong Roots is striving to put down solid foundations in the broadcast industry in Ethiopia, building its reputation based on quality of service and broad coverage with heartfelt Ethiopian Hospitality”.