Virgin Media launches The Africa Channel

Virgin Media has bolstered its entertainment line-up with the launch of The Africa Channel, which offers a diverse range of programming inspired by the continent.

The station is now available at position 828 on the Virgin Media electronic programme guide, while the deal also includes distribution rights for content across the cable company's video-on-demand service.

All subscribers to the M+ TV package and above can access the channel for no additional cost and enjoy up to 20 hours of on-demand content every month.

The Africa Channel's schedule includes a diverse range of programmes, from news and current affairs to films, documentaries and wildlife shows.

Highlights include the award-winning Dallas-esque drama Jacob's Cross, Cuba, An African Odyssey, which investigates the relationship between Cuba and several African nations during the Cold War, and Michaela Strachan's Endangered.

Many of the shows, which are a mix of acquired and wholly owned content, will be broadcast for the first time in the UK thanks to the launch of The Africa Channel.

"With such a variety of shows on offer there really is something for everyone," Virgin Media commented.