African filmmakers have until October to put their next big story in front of MTN One TV as the platform searches for projects with the potential to reach audiences across the continent.
MTN One TV made the announcement on September 16, 2026, inviting established African producers and production companies to pitch film and television projects that are locally rooted but capable of connecting with audiences beyond their home markets.
The opportunity is open across Africa, with particular focus on audiences in Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana and Zambia. The platform is targeting young people aged 18 to 34 as well as mass-market viewers.
This is not a call for completed movies to be sent in for immediate broadcast. Selected applicants will pitch projects directly to MTN One TV, creating a route for stories still in development to be considered for a potential commercial relationship.
Two pitch opportunities are available. The deadline for the Durban FilmMart pitch is September 28, while applications for the MIP Africa pitch at FAME Week Africa close on October 5.
MTN is looking for limited series, scripted and unscripted series, micro-dramas and feature films. Eligible genres include drama, comedy, reality, action, thriller, romance and animation.
The initiative follows MTN’s launch of One TV in June as part of its expansion into digital entertainment. The platform brings together local storytelling, live channels and international programming, with viewing models that can include free-to-view content, advertising-funded viewing, pay-as-you-watch access and subscriptions, depending on the market.
That makes the content search part of a wider commercial push. MTN wants stories that can attract viewers, work across markets and suit digitally connected and mobile-first audiences.
The requirements reflect that expectation. Applicants must operate through registered production companies, while lead producers must have at least seven years of professional industry experience and a relevant track record.
Submissions must include a pitch deck, synopsis, pilot or relevant episode script, production budget, schedule, financing status, target audience and rights information.
Nigeria is one of the four priority markets named in the pitch call, giving local production companies another potential route to audiences outside the country.
But the opportunity does not amount to guaranteed funding. MTN’s published terms state that submitting or pitching a project does not guarantee a commission, investment, licence, acquisition or development agreement. If MTN decides to pursue a project, the commercial terms will be negotiated separately.
Shortlisted projects will be pitched in person at the relevant industry event. Two complimentary Durban FilmMart accreditations are available for each shortlisted project, although travel, accommodation, visas and other attendance costs remain the responsibility of participants.