ZBC Will Not Get All The Car Radio Licence Money: Government

Zimbabwe’s government says the controversial radio licence fee for motorists is not entirely for the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), amid widespread anger over the new US$92 (R1,660) annual charge.

Government spokesperson Nick Mangwana made the clarification on X on 19 July 2025, saying:

“ZBC is not going to take all the money. It’s an anomaly to call it a ZBC license. Part of the money will be used to develop the broadcasting sector and make sure every place in Zimbabwe has a signal. Community radio stations will also be sustained.”

The remarks come amid a wave of backlash from motorists, opposition leaders, and social media users over the mandatory licence, which must be paid before vehicle owners can renew their ZINARA disc or insurance policy.

“Citizens Being Pauperised Left, Right And Centre”

Critics argue the new requirement, introduced under the Broadcasting Services Amendment Act (No. 2 of 2025), is unjust and burdensome.

Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa slammed the law as:

“Too draconian, anti-citizens and outrightly heartless… Citizens are being pauperised left, right and centre, why does the citizenry of this country deserve so uncaring & heartless a leadership?”

Another motorist wrote on X:

“Wait… I have to drive to ZBC offices just to tell them I don’t have a radio? #ZimbabweLogic”

Under the new law, all motorists must either pay the US$92 fee or prove that their car does not have a radio. To get an exemption, motorists must:

• Visit a ZBC office in person,

• Swear a declaration before a Commissioner of Oaths,

• Submit the declaration to ZBC,

• Obtain and retain an exemption certificate.

ZINARA officials have confirmed this process is mandatory and cannot be done online or by proxy.

“We Cannot Proceed Without The ZBC Certificate”

ZINARA’s internal memo dated 15 July 2025, signed by Revenue Operations Director P.M. Shuro, made it clear:

“We cannot process their ZINARA disc or insurance renewal until they present a valid exemption certificate.”

The memo added:

“All staff involved in the issuing of vehicle licences [must] acquaint themselves with the new requirements to effectively assist our clients.”

Many Zimbabweans were shocked to learn that without the ZBC licence or exemption, they would be legally barred from getting insurance or registering their vehicles.

One X user posted:

“So, someone in Tsholotsho must travel to Bulawayo just to swear they don’t have a radio? Absurd!”

ZBC Could Earn Over US$100 Million

With over 1.2 million registered vehicles in Zimbabwe, and assuming full compliance, ZBC could generate more than US$110 million (R2 billion) annually.

Even if just 800,000 motorists pay, the broadcaster could still rake in US$73.6 million (R1.3 billion).

However, whether this revenue will be realised depends on how strictly the law is enforced—and whether citizens comply or seek exemptions.

Nick Mangwana stressed that the funds are meant to help expand national signal coverage and support community radio:

“It’s not all going to ZBC. The idea is to create a robust, accessible broadcasting environment for everyone.”

Still, discontent simmers, especially among those who feel unfairly penalised despite not listening to ZBC.