Windhoek, Namibia – March 11, 2024 – Future Media and TribeFire Studios are delighted to
announce that the merger between the two media companies has been successfully
completed, with OneAfrica and 99FM becoming subsidiaries of Namibia Future Media
Holdings. This milestone marks a significant moment in the Namibian media landscape as
six of the country’s most influential media brands will be managed under one roof.
Gary Stroebel, CEO of Future Media, confirmed the rationale behind the transaction: “This
merger represents a strategic move to strengthen our position in the dynamic media
industry. By combining our resources and expertise, we are better equipped to deliver
enhanced value to our clients and audiences. The blending of two excellent management
teams also assists us to better navigate the evolving digital media landscape.”
Stefan Hugo, who joins Future Media as an Executive Director adds, “We are excited about
the opportunities that this merger presents for our teams and stakeholders. Together, we will
leverage our collective strengths to innovate and create impactful content that resonates
with our audiences across various platforms.”
The merger brings together OneAfrica and 99FM with Future Media’s existing portfolio,
which includes Radio Wave, Fresh FM, NOVA 103.5, and Omulunga Radio. This consolidation
aims to streamline operations, expand our reach, and provide a wider range of products and
services to our clients and audiences.
“We are committed to maintaining our dedication to trustable local media content and
services,” said Stroebel. “The combined online and on-air audiences that our clients will be
able to access as a one-stop service, provides a viable alternative to advertising on
international platforms while supporting the local economy and keeping advertising spend
in the country. ”
The completion of the merger follows the approval of the Communications Regulatory
Authority of Namibia (CRAN) in July 2023. CRAN conducted a thorough assessment and
solicited public input before granting approval, underscoring its commitment to ensuring the
socio-economic benefits of all Namibians.
The merger also received approval from the Namibian Competition Commission. The NACC,
responsible for regulating competition issues across all sectors of the Namibian economy,
granted its stamp of approval on 19 December 2023. This endorsement underscores the
merger’s adherence to fair competition practices and its positive impact on the Namibian
media landscape.
“We appreciate the thorough review process conducted by both CRAN & the Namibian
Competition Commission. We are grateful for their support in the fight against the outflow of
media spending to international platforms that has led to the collapse of many newsrooms
and studios across the globe” added Hugo. “We are committed to Namibia and the
constructive role we have to play in the future narrative of our country. ”
For further information and inquiries, please contact:
Gary Stroebel
gary@futuremedia.com.na
Stefan Hugo
stefan.hugo@tribefirestudios.com
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