Online Reporter
Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of the official commissioning of the newly modernised Montrose Studios in Bulawayo. All systems are set for this landmark event, which marks a major step in the country’s ongoing Zim Digital Phase Two project — a national programme aimed at transforming Zimbabwe’s broadcasting landscape.
Today’s launch breathes new life into one of ZBC’s oldest broadcasting centres, long held back by outdated equipment. The upgraded Montrose Studios now boast state-of-the-art production facilities, positioning Bulawayo once again as a key broadcasting hub alongside Pockets Hill in Harare.
As Zimbabwe continues its migration from analogue to digital broadcasting — an initiative guided by International Telecommunications Union standards — the modernisation of facilities such as Montrose is expected to boost content creation, improve signal quality and expand access to radio and television services.
Stay with us as we bring you real-time updates, highlights and reactions from this milestone event.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere arrives for launch of upgraded Montrose Studios
Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere has arrived at the Montrose studios in Bulawayo where he will be commissioning the mordenised Montrose Studios, representing President Mnangagwa.
Dr Muswere was welcomed by Public Service Minister Edgar Moyo, Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Omphile Marupi, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Albert Mavhunga, president of Chief Council, Chief Mtshana Khumalo, Zbc chief executive officer, Sugar Chagonda among other signatories.
Minister Muswere has cut the ribbon to officially commission the modernised Montrose studios, on behalf of President Mnangagwa.
The Minister and his delegation are now being taken through the modernised studio where ZBC has also included the use of Artificial Intelligence.
Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere has just completed touring the modernised Montrose studios, where he got an appreciation on how they will be operating.
The Minister, who is commissioning the studios on behalf of President Mnangagwa toured both the TV and radio studio.
Among other modern amenities, the studios will use Artificial Intelligence in their productions, to enhance viewer satisfaction.
Before the tour, the Minister cut the ribbon to the new studio as well as unviel the plaque, to officially commission the studios.
ZBC’s Montrose Studios set to drive creative industry growth
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere has highlighted the pivotal role of the broadcasting industry in preserving Zimbabwe’s cultural identity during a tour of the modernised ZBC Montrose studios in Bulawayo.
“The Montrose studios will be the anchor and pedestal of the creative industry, all the talent in Bulawayo has been harnessed to enhance the broadcasting industry in the country,” Dr Muswere said.
He added that the development would contribute to the growth of Bulawayo’s Metropolitan province and the country as a whole.
The modernisation of the studios is expected to boost the broadcasting industry, promoting local talent and showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage.
President Mnangagwa highlights media’s role in development
President Mnangagwa has emphasised the crucial role played by the media in Zimbabwe’s development journey, saying it remains central to the country’s growth.
In a speech read on his behalf by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere during the commissioning of the modernised ZBC Montrose studios in Bulawayo on Friday, the President said the media was central in the development of the nation.
“The project is another example of Government’s commitment to leveraging technology innovation to promote growth in all sectors of our economy,” President Mnangagwa said.
He added, “In this respect, the role played by media, information and broadcasting remains central in Zimbabwe’s development journey.”
The President noted that ZBC continues to serve as the voice of the nation, highlighting the country’s vision, celebrating its triumphs and providing a platform for national dialogue.
The modernisation of the Montrose studios is part of Government’s efforts to enhance the country’s broadcasting capabilities and promote economic growth through technology innovation.
