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Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
The Zimbabwe African National Congress (ZANC) has thrown its weight behind the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill 2024.
The landmark legislation seeks to align the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06] with the Constitution and the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act [Chapter 10:31].
Mr Timothy Mncube, president of ZANC said as a party committed to promoting democracy, transparency, and accountability, they believe that the bill is a significant step towards modernising the broadcasting sector.
Mr Mncube said the amendments will not only bring laws in line with the Constitution but also ensure that the broadcasting services are regulated in a manner that promotes diversity, inclusivity and freedom of expression.
He said key provisions of the bill, such as the amendment of section 2A of the principal Act, will enable the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) to regulate and manage the broadcasting services bands for sustenance rather than control.
“This is a welcome development that will promote a more enabling environment for broadcasters to operate,” Mr Mncube said.
“Furthermore, the bill’s requirement for the national broadcaster to broadcast 75 percent local content is a positive step towards promoting our cultural heritage and supporting local talent. The provision for licensees with sports channels to broadcast 50 percent local sports content is also a great incentive for promoting local sports development.
“We believe that the Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill 2024 is a critical piece of legislation that will help to transform our broadcasting sector. We urge all stakeholders to support this bill and work together to ensure its swift passage into law.”
ZANC is committed to working with all stakeholders to promote a more democratic, transparent and accountable broadcasting sector.
Mr Mncube said they believe that the bill is a significant step towards achieving the goal.
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