The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has issued a stern warning regarding the proliferation of explicit digital content available in the country. The Authority asserts that such content represents a significant threat to children and contravenes national values. In a press release dated February 3, 2026, BAZ expressed deep concern over social media platforms and digital content creators sharing materials accessible to Zimbabwean audiences, including minors.
BAZ emphasised that all broadcasting and digital content consumed within Zimbabwe must conform to the national legal and constitutional framework, regardless of the distribution platform. While the Authority recognises the right to freedom of expression guaranteed under Section 61 of the Constitution, it insists that this freedom must be exercised responsibly and with consideration for the rights of others, as outlined in Section 86.
The Authority reiterated that, under the Broadcasting Services Act, children have a legal entitlement to protection from material that could adversely affect their moral and psychological development. It underscored that the child’s best interests must be the guiding principle in content creation and distribution.
Moreover, BAZ referenced the Censorship and Entertainment Control Act, which prohibits the release of content deemed indecent, obscene, or offensive to public morals. It reminded broadcasters and content creators of their responsibility to uphold the standards of public morality and national values as stipulated by Zimbabwean laws.
The regulator asserted that it will not tolerate the misuse of digital platforms that infringe on the Constitution, national regulations, or the country’s collective moral standards. Content creators were reminded of their legal and ethical obligation to ensure that their creations comply with Zimbabwean law and respect the rights and dignity of all citizens, particularly that of children.
BAZ stated that it would enact appropriate enforcement measures in line with its constitutional and statutory responsibilities to ensure compliance and protect the public interest. The government remains dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s moral fabric and protecting children from harmful digital content.
