Zimbabwe Makes it Mandatory for Motorists to Buy Radio Licences: Here’s How You Can Avoid It

Zimbabwe Makes it Compulsory for Motorists to Buy Radio Licences: Here’s How You Can Avoid It

The government has introduced a new requirement that will likely impact car owners’ budgets; motorists must now obtain a radio licence before purchasing vehicle insurance.

However, there is an exception—Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) can grant exemptions to those who qualify.

Also read: Central Vehicle Registry Extends Driver’s Licence Services to Bulawayo: What It Means For Motorists

New Government Regulation: Compulsory Radio Licences for Motorists

This development follows the approval of amendments to the Broadcasting Services Act by the Cabinet, including the Media Practitioners’ Bill. These changes aim to regulate media operations and uphold professionalism within the industry.

Additionally, the Cabinet has approved amendments to the Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) Act, which aims to ensure standardized training for media practitioners.

Dr Muswere explained that the revisions to the Broadcasting Services Act will require motorists to obtain radio licences when renewing vehicle licences, thus boosting revenue for the public broadcaster.

Also read: ZINARA Announces New Toll Fees and Vehicle Licensing Prices in Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) Currency

Amendments to Broadcasting and Media Regulations

Dr Muswere further stated that the amendments address gaps in the 2019 regulations and include provisions such as gender balance in the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe Board, the introduction of annual applications for broadcasting frequency spectrum licences, expanded definitions under Section 38A, and the prohibition of selling motor vehicle registration licences or insurance coverage without a valid radio licence or exemption from the ZBC under Section 38B. As per the amended Act, it will be mandatory for all motorists to possess a valid radio licence before selling or insuring their vehicles.

“The additional amendments will, among other provisions, provide for the following: ensuring gender balance in the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe Board; introduction of annual applications for broadcasting frequency spectrum licences; broadening and introducing new definitions under Section 38A; and prohibition of the sale of motor vehicle registration licence or motor vehicle insurance cover or policy to a person without a current radio licence or an exemption from ZBC under Section 38B. In terms of the amended Act, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation revenue base will be broadened since it will be mandatory for all motorists to have a current radio licence before either disposing of their vehicles or purchasing motor vehicle cover or policy,” he said.

Moreover, the amended ZMC Act will standardize journalism and mass communication training nationwide to enhance professionalism in the media sector.

Dr Muswere highlighted that the establishment of the Media Council of Zimbabwe will regulate media ownership and tenure for Commissioners, along with defining reporting structures.

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