In Zimbabwe, the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill has successfully passed its second reading in the National Assembly, introducing significant changes intended to harmonise the nation’s broadcasting regulations with the Constitution and international standards.
During the presentation of the bill on its second reading, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, outlined several reforms, including updates in technology, governance improvements, and the establishment of new licensing frameworks. He emphasised that the last amendment to the Broadcasting Act occurred in 2007, leading to inconsistencies with the new Constitution and necessitating these updates.
Dr Muswere highlighted the need for the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) to transition from a controlling body to one that focuses on regulating and promoting fair management of broadcasting resources.
The bill further introduces new categories of broadcasting licences, such as internet-based broadcasting, satellite services, and datacasting, reflecting rapid technological advancement within the media sector.
Key amendments include defining additional broadcasting service categories to ensure comprehensive coverage under the new licensing framework. The regulations notably assert that only Zimbabwean citizens may serve as directors for licensed broadcasting companies. Additionally, the frequency spectrum licenses will now be applied annually, streamlining the application process.
Moreover, the bill mandates broadcasters to air programming in all languages spoken within their coverage areas, promoting cultural diversity. Public broadcasters are required to feature 75 per cent local content across all channels, while sports networks must ensure at least 50 per cent of their programming is locally produced.
Dr. Muswere urged lawmakers to support the bill, arguing that it fosters media pluralism, transparency, and adaptability to technological changes. The bill is set for further debate in Parliament before advancing to the next legislative phase.
