The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has expressing concerns over the growing prevalence of internet-based broadcasting content that is inconsistent with Zimbabwe’s broadcasting regulations and standards.

The Authority has declared a potential crackdown on online media, warning against content deemed to promote moral decay and violate national values.

In its statement, BAZ highlighted unverified, harmful or offensive material as a blatant disregard for existing broadcasting laws.

The authority cited the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06] and the Broadcasting Services (Licensing and Content) Regulations, 2004 [SI 185/2004], along with the Broadcasting Services (Code of Conduct for Broadcasters) Regulations, 2023 [SI 58/2023], as the legal framework governing content, emphasizing that these regulations set the standards for responsible broadcasting, ensuring content upholds national values, respects individual rights, and contributes positively to societal development.

“These instruments set the standards for responsible broadcasting, ensuring content upholds national values, respect individual rights and contribute positively to societal development.
“The code of conduct for broadcasters clearly define the professional and ethical guidelines that all broadcasters were the traditional or digital are required to follow.” Reads the statement.

The Authority has also announced that freedom of expression and the media must be enjoyed responsibly and reasonably.

The authority declared its intention to monitor both traditional and digital media and shall not hesitate to decisively enforce the existing laws to protect the integrity of Zimbabwe’s media space.

“Broadcasting via the internet does not equate exemption from responsible broadcasting. All broadcasters must meet the same ethical and legal standards. Broadcasting platforms must not become vehicles for lawlessness, misinformation or the erosion of core values.

“The Authority will continue to monitor both traditional and digital media and shall not hesitate to decisively enforce the existing laws to protect the integrity of Zimbabwe’s media space.” Reads the statement.