Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, [email protected]
TSHOLOTSHO and Nkayi are set to have community radio stations after Government gazetted the licensing of 18 additional stations, a move that significantly expands the country’s broadcasting footprint and signals a deliberate shift towards decentralising access to information.
The move, published in the latest Government Gazette, reflects continued efforts to open up Zimbabwe’s airwaves and promote media diversity particularly in previously underserved communities.
The 18 areas to have free to air radio stations include Sanyati, Guruve Mwenezi,Tsholotsho, Nkayi, Gokwe, Nemangwe, Mberengwa, Bikita, Zaka, Wedza, Buhera, Zvishavane, Chegutu, Mutoko, Karoi, Muzarabani, Rushinga and Chiweshe
In a Government Gazette the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe called for applications for Broadcasting Service Licences.
“It is hereby notified that in terms of section 10 of the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06], the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe is inviting applications for licences to provide Free-to-air Community Radio Broadcasting Service licences in the areas provided…
“The deadline for submission of applications shall be 90 days from the date of the publishing of this notice.”
The licenses are for a 10 year period.
Community radio stations are key in amplifying grassroots voices, promoting local content and supporting initiatives in agriculture, health, education and disaster management.
The expansion of community radio broadcasting is expected to strengthen communication at local level, improve access to vital public information and enhance community engagement in national development processes.
Community radio stations create opportunities for content producers, journalists and technicians at local level, while also promoting small businesses through advertising.
