Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke-Herald Correspondent
THE Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has raised alarm over a growing trend of internet-based broadcasting that violates the country’s media laws, warning that all content, whether online or traditional, must meet established ethical and legal standards.
In a statement issued yesterday, the authority said: “The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe hereby expresses serious concern over the growing prevalence of internet-based broadcasting of content that is inconsistent with Zimbabwe’s broadcasting regulations and standards”.
BAZ said it is particularly disturbed by the spread of “unverified, harmful or offensive material,” which it described as “a blatant disregard for the guidelines provided in the nation’s broadcasting laws.”
The statement cited three key legal instruments as the basis of Zimbabwe’s broadcasting framework: Broadcasting Services Act; Broadcasting Services (Licensing and Content) Regulations, 2004 [SI 185/2004] and Broadcasting Services (Code of Conduct for Broadcasters) Regulations, 2023 [SI 148/2023].
“These instruments set the standards for responsible broadcasting, ensuring content upholds national values, respects individual rights and contributes positively to societal development.
“The Code of Conduct for Broadcasters clearly defines the professional and ethical guidelines that all broadcasters, whether traditional or digital, are required to follow”.
BAZ said while the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression and media, such freedoms must be exercised responsibly and with respect for others.
“It must be noted that the constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of expression and the media must be enjoyed responsibly and reasonably, with due regard for the rights and freedoms of others,” reads the statement.
“Broadcasting via the internet does not equate exemption from responsible broadcasting, all broadcasters must meet the same ethical and legal standards. Broadcasting platforms must not become vehicles for lawlessness, misinformation or the erosion of core national values.”
The regulator said it would continue to monitor both traditional and digital platforms and pledged to act decisively where there is non-compliance.
