Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
ZIMBABWE is charting an ambitious course towards digital media sovereignty and infrastructure modernisation, with a strong emphasis on satellite technology and comprehensive national signal coverage, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere has said.
Speaking at the 17th Annual General Meeting of Transmedia Corporation in Harare yesterday, Dr Muswere stated that the Government is accelerating the integration of Transmedia with the ICT sector to reduce operational costs, enhance national signal distribution, and strengthen Zimbabwe’s leadership in regional broadcasting.
“We have completed the digital infrastructure masterplan for the ICT sector. Now, we must consolidate efforts to reduce operational costs. The digital phase grants us technological sovereignty, and we must align this with terrestrial and satellite infrastructure,” he said.
Dr Muswere emphasised the urgency of developing a regional blueprint for satellite communication systems, particularly as Zimbabwe currently holds the SADC chairmanship and is a member of continental bodies such as the Pan-African Parliament (PAP).
“We need to formulate a blueprint that ensures the implementation of satellite technology to secure media sovereignty for our country. This will guarantee total coverage across Zimbabwe,” he said.
He urged Transmedia to diversify its operations and invest in research and development.
“Innovation and evidence-based decision-making are essential. The broadcasting sector must overcome structural barriers and embrace growth through new technologies,” he said.
The minister commended the shared vision and leadership between Transmedia’s board, management, and stakeholders.
“Transmedia plays a pivotal role in ensuring comprehensive media coverage and digital sovereignty. The future lies in collaborative innovation and infrastructure integration,” said Dr Muswere.
Transmedia Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Adonia Mushosho, echoed the minister’s sentiments and presented a performance report indicating growth despite operational challenges. “Our corporation recorded a 28.8 percent increase in income, reaching ZWG19.4 million in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year,” said Engineer Mushosho.
“We are the sole signal distribution company in Zimbabwe, and infrastructure sharing with telecommunications companies contributed 10 percent of our revenue.”
He noted that while network availability stood at 91 percent — below the 99 percent target — Transmedia is actively expanding its infrastructure footprint.
“Our 2025 target is to install 10 FM radio transmitters and five TV transmitters. So far, two FM transmitters are operational, with more installations scheduled by July.”
Highlighting innovation and the adoption of clean energy, Engineer Mushosho cited the construction of a solar-powered transmission tower in Ngarawa, Nyanga, in partnership with Unesco and UNDP.
“That transmitter now covers a 70km radius and has brought signal and mobile connectivity to a previously excluded community,” he said.
