Zim Now Writer
The Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill, set for parliamentary debate next Tuesday, proposes that motorists must pay for radio licences before acquiring vehicle insurance.
The legislation aims to boost revenue collection for the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation by linking insurance to radio licence compliance.
Under the proposed law, only motorists with a ZBC exemption—such as those without radio receivers in their vehicles—will be spared from purchasing a radio licence.
Additionally, the government is considering introducing a synchronised disc that combines radio, Zinara, and insurance licences to streamline regulatory compliance.
This development was revealed during a tour of ZBC and Zimbabwe Media Commission premises by the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, accompanied by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Media.
The delegation was led by Deputy Minister Dr. Omphile Marupi, representing Minister Dr. Jenfan Muswere. The committee was chaired by legislator Caston Matewu.
Matewu underscored the importance of consulting stakeholders as the Bill moves through Parliament.
“We came here because we wanted to engage with ZBC. It is important to hear views from all stakeholders as we go through this Bill,” he stated.
Deputy Minister Marupi highlighted the need for strong legal frameworks to support governance in the media sector.
“Improving media conditions starts with the law. We cannot talk about good governance without proper legal frameworks,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening media regulations.
The Bill forms part of broader broadcasting sector reforms, including budgetary support for digitalisation, which has increased from an initial ZIG30 million to nearly ZIG200 million.
ZBC board chairperson Helliate Rushwaya welcomed the amendments, stating that they would enhance the national broadcaster’s financial stability.
“These amendments will expand our revenue base, allowing us to invest in high-quality broadcasting infrastructure and content production,” she said.
The Bill is scheduled for its second reading on Tuesday, after which parliamentary debate will commence.
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