Online Reporter
Sunday Mail Reporter
THE upgraded Montrose Studios in Bulawayo will not only improve broadcasting quality, but also enable the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) to keep pace with global technological trends and meet the evolving needs of audiences.
This was revealed by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere after he toured the studios on Friday.
Dr Muswere said he was impressed by the work done and the progress achieved in the modernisation of ZBC.
The tour was meant to review advancements in the modernisation and expansion of the facility.
“We are satisfied in terms of the technical achievements and the refurbishment that you undertook in terms of the modernisation of the studios,” he said.
“This is a precursor to the visit by His Excellency Dr ED Mnangagwa, who will officially commission the Montrose studios. There are now eight radio studios and two new TV studios, and this is part of the modernisation thrust.”
Dr Muswere said the project will be linked to innovation hubs and content centres across the country, supporting both education and the promotion of heritage broadcasting.
“This will be part of our heritage broadcasting project. I am very pleased to see the dedication and effort put into the modernisation and expansion of the studios,” he said.
The modernisation and expansion of the studios are integral components of the ZimDigital Phase Two Project, which aims to keep pace with technological advancements and improve the overall broadcasting experience for audiences.
The upgrades at the studios will facilitate the creation of high-quality content and provide ZBC with state-of-the-art facilities to produce a wide range of programmes.
Dr Muswere highlighted the importance of such initiatives in advancing Zimbabwe’s broadcasting industry and supporting the country’s digital transformation efforts.
“Investing in modern infrastructure and upgrading our broadcasting facilities is essential for promoting innovation and enhancing the competitiveness of our media sector,” he said.
The upgrade of Montrose Studios is expected to facilitate the production of high-quality content and broaden programming, positioning ZBC as a stronger player in Zimbabwe’s digital transformation agenda.
Dr Muswere commended the ZBC management and staff for their dedication to the project and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that drive growth in the broadcasting sector.
The modernisation of the studios forms part of the ongoing ZimDigital Phase Two Project, which seeks to transform the country’s broadcasting infrastructure and enhance production capacity.
The ZimDigital Migration Project, launched in line with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) resolution for countries to switch from analogue to digital broadcasting, is being implemented in phases.
The initiative is aimed at improving signal quality, expanding access to television and radio services and creating a platform for local content development.
The first phase saw the rollout of digital transmitters in key areas across the country, while the second phase focuses on upgrading production and studio facilities such as Montrose in Bulawayo and Pockets Hill in Harare.
Montrose Studios, which are among ZBC’s oldest broadcasting centres, have for years battled outdated equipment, which limited their ability to produce modern, high-quality programming.
The latest upgrading is expected to restore Bulawayo’s position as a key broadcasting hub, complementing Pockets Hill in Harare.
During the tour, Dr Muswere was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary in his ministry, Mr Nick Mangwana, ZBC board chairperson Ms Helliate Rushwaya and the corporation’s newly appointed chief executive officer, Mr Sugar Chagonda.
