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radio stations — Star FM and ZiFM Stereo.
Although figures of how much Zimura is owed by the stations are yet to be known, it is highly likely that the total amount run into six figures.
Star FM pledged its commitment to fully pay up by the end of April. It does not matter whether the radio station is commercial or public broadcaster, all the radio stations are bound by the same rule, but the only difference is where it concerns radio licensing.
In an interview, Star FM general manager Admire Taderera confirmed the station was committed to paying what it owes Zimura.
“They (Zimura) are our friends and as we speak I have a letter from them concerning the issue of royalties. What we have done is to make sure that we have a workable payment plan and hopefully we should be paid up this month,” Taderera said.
Star FM has become a station of choice thanks to its innovative and flexible programming giving more value to its listeners. Recently, the station’s waves hit Mutare and Beitbridge and soon the station will be accessible in all parts of the country.
Supa Mandiwanzira, the ZiFM Stereo boss, also threw his weight behind the payment of royalties saying it was a good thing that the Government opened up the airwaves for commercial radio stations.
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“What this means is that local musicians stand to benefit more from royalties. We do not play their music only, but also pay them. So yes, we have been discussing with Zimura on how we can remunerate our musicians and it has been great. Zimura agreed with our payment plan and stand by it,” Mandiwanzira said.
Sivukile Simango, the ZBC public relations manager, was quoted as saying that the national broadcaster had struck a deal with Zimura.
“Yes, our property was meant to be attached, but that has not happened because we reached an agreement. We will be paying instalments to pay the debt,” he said.
According to unconfirmed figures, the national broadcaster owes Zimura over US$700 000 including interest accrued since 2009.
Zimura lawyer Witness Zhangazha said the debt would be paid in instalments of US$100 000 per month until September.
Albert Nyathi, who is the chairman of Zimura, confirmed the payment arrangements with the stations.
“Well, what I can confirm is that we are on the verge of sealing deals with most stations. I don’t have much detail on that at present, but we have made progress in that regard,” he said.
Online Reporter