Channel 2 Group Corporation to launch a 24 hour movie channel 'Channel 2'

Channel 2 will be a terrestrial service with an exciting unique mix of the latest entertainment from Hollywood and a touch of Bollywood. With the industry growing at a rapid phase making it imperative to address the targeted audience with customized entertainment options.

At a proposed press conference to mark the occasion to launch Channel 2 will be the Honorable Mr. Morris Dzoro, MP Minister of Tourism Government of Kenya, Mr. Hezekiel Oira Managing Director of Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, Mr. Wachira Waruru, CEO Kenya Film Commission and other dignitaries.

Mr. Ajay Sethi, Chairperson of Channel 2 Group Corporation explained that "Channel 2" will be the first terrestrial unique movie channel in Africa, and will bring to its viewers the very latest in movie & entertainment mix. Channel 2 shall be expanded to other African countries on terrestrial platforms and has already entered into telecast agreement with Uganda Broadcasting Corporation on the national channel. Our expertise in this field is well established, and with this launch will further strengthen the group's foothold in Africa. The total population of Kenya is 40 million, of which KBC already commands an 85% viewer ship. KBC is a national broadcaster with its strong nationwide infrastructure adding great value to the joint venture and making it a commercially viable project. We expect that the dearth of terrestrial movie channels in Africa will turn Channel 2 into a hugely popular and much desired movie channel."

He added that "The channel has been stylized keeping African sensitivities in mind, so the look and feel of the channel will be very African. Channel 2 Movies not only promises its viewers premium quality entertainment, but also provides multinationals and other corporations a world class media vehicle to advertise their wares on."

This launch comes close on the heels of UAE's Channel 729, an associate company of Channel 2 Group Corporation, signing a telecast agreement with KBC, whereby KBC has broadcasted hours of Channel 729 free to air on its terrestrial channel to its viewers. Blockbuster soaps like 'Kahani Ghar Ghar Ki' and 'Kyun Ki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi' with English subtitles are very popular amongst African viewers.

In an important development, Channel 729 has got terrestrial rights for the India-England Cricket series 2006 whereby 3 test matches and 11 one days were broadcasted free to air on terrestrial channels for the first time in following African countries-National broadcasters: Kenya-KBC, Zimbabwe-ZBC, Zambia-Muvi TV, Uganda-UBC, Tanzania-Ch.10, Namibia-One Africa TV, Malawi-MBC, Botswana-BTV.

Channel 2 has a strong network with the Indian Film Industry and has signed a strategic alliance with Kenya Film Commission ( KFC) and is now bridging the gap between Kenya and the Indian Film Industry. Mr. Wachira Waruru, CEO of Kenya Film Commission is especially here from Kenya for the IIFA Awards being held in Dubai. Kenya has always been a very popular scenic location with Hollywood and it now opens its doors with tremendous support from the government to the Indian Film Industry.

Channel 2 is hosting the post award party at the IIFA on the 16th of June 2006 at the Grand Hyatt, Dubai.