BULAWAYO-BASED community radio initiative Y-FM has accused Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda of ignoring its petition seeking his support for its efforts to obtain a community radio licence.
Y-FM director Philani Ncube said they recently submitted their letter to the National Assembly seeking support to obtain a broadcasting licence from the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (Baz), without success.
“It is disappointing because we are trying to promote youth participation in the media, yet our voices are being ignored,” Ncube said.
He said they were frustrated by what they view as an unfair and restrictive licensing process administered by Baz.
The dispute dates back to 2021 when Y-FM petitioned Parliament challenging section 10 of the Broadcasting Services Act (BSA), which gives Baz the power to invite applications from potential broadcasters.
The organisation argued that communities should be free to apply whenever they are ready, instead of waiting for invitations.
“Communities should take the initiative to apply for licences that would align with sections 61 and 62 of the Constitution, which guarantee freedom of expression and access to information,” Ncube said.
Concerns over the US$800 annual licence fee were also raised, with Y-FM saying it is too exorbitant.
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“Community radios are not commercial stations; they are tools for education and development, the current fees make it impossible for most communities to participate,” Ncube said.
According to Ncube, a source within the Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services ministry confirmed that the government is aware of Y-FM’s concerns and that discussions are ongoing to amend the Broadcasting Services Act.
“The ministry has been engaging stakeholders to improve the licensing framework, we encourage all interested parties, including Y-FM, to continue engaging through formal channels,” Ncube said.
