MUMBAI: BBC Worldwide Channels will launch a suite of BBC-branded thematic channels in Africa.

The channels will be available via MultiChoice's DStv platform, Africa's leading television provider, from 1 September 2008.

iThe new thematic channels - BBC Entertainment, BBC Knowledge, BBC Lifestyle and CBeebies - will replace and build on the success of existing channels BBC Food and BBC Prime.

BBC Worldwide Channels MD Darren Childs said, "Today's announcement builds on BBC Worldwide channel's long-term relationship with MultiChoice. In asking us to provide more channels for the platform is testimony to the BBC brand and the quality of our content."

MultiChoice SA Group CEO Nolo Letele, said: "MultiChoice welcomes the additions of the four new BBC channels, we believe it will contribute to our ongoing commitment of ensuring our customers receive high quality channels from a variety of different genres."

BBC Knowledge showcases the best of the BBC’s factual and non-fiction entertainment programming. The channel provides five key strands enabling simple appointment viewing: The World delves and explores new cultures around the world; Science and Technology explores new frontiers, from space to motoring; People explores aspects of the human body and mind; The Past brings historical events, places and people back to life; Business offers advice on how to stay on top of today’s challenging business world.

BBC Lifestyle is a destination that looks to offer inspiration for home, family and life. The channel dishes up six tasty strands to entertain engage and inspire viewers. African series, once on BBC Food, will now broadcast in the Food strand.