marble nkomo
Online Reporter
The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has expressed concern over the growing spread of explicit digital content by some social media creators, warning that such material—accessible within the country, including by children—violates Zimbabwean laws and threatens public morals.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, BAZ said it had noted with serious concern the circulation of content deemed indecent or obscene on digital platforms.
The broadcasting regular reiterated that all broadcasting and online material consumed in Zimbabwe falls under the country’s legal and constitutional framework, regardless of the platform used.
While acknowledging the constitutional right to freedom of expression as enshrined in Section 61 of the Constitution, the Authority stressed that this freedom must be exercised responsibly and with respect for the rights of others, in line with Section 86 of the Constitution.
BAZ cited provisions of the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06], which places the best interests of the child at the centre of all media regulation.
“In terms of the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06], children have a right to protection from exposure to content that is harmful to their moral and psychological development, with the best interests of the child being paramount,” read the statement.
The Authority also referenced the Censorship and Entertainment Control Act [Chapter 10:04], which prohibits the dissemination of indecent, obscene or offensive material, or content harmful to public morals. It said broadcasters and digital content creators have a legal obligation to uphold public morality and national values.
“Moreover, the Censorship and Entertainment Control Act [Chapter 10:04] prohibits the dissemination of content that is indecent or obscene or is offensive or harmful to public morals. Broadcasters and content creators must therefore uphold public morality and national values as entrenched in the laws of Zimbabwe,” said BAZ.
BAZ warned it would not tolerate the misuse of digital platforms in ways that violate the Constitution, national laws or the country’s collective moral standards.
Content creators were reminded of their ethical and legal responsibility to ensure that their material complies with Zimbabwean laws and respects the rights and dignity of all citizens, particularly children.
The Authority said it would take appropriate enforcement measures as part of its constitutional and statutory mandate to ensure compliance and protect the public interest.
Government, BAZ added, remains committed to preserving the nation’s moral fabric and safeguarding children from harmful digital content
Londile Moyo
Online Reporter