By Dickson Bandera
The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has raised alarm over what it describes as a worrying increase in the spread of harmful, unverified, and offensive content by internet-based broadcasters, warning that such conduct violates the country’s broadcasting laws and ethical standards.
In a strongly worded press statement released this week, the Authority said that some online broadcasters are “blatantly disregarding” national broadcasting regulations, including the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06], the Broadcasting Services (Licensing and Content) Regulations, 2004, and the recently updated Broadcasting Services (Code of Conduct for Broadcasters) Regulations, 2023.
“It must be noted that the Constitutionally guaranteed freedoms of expression and the media must be enjoyed responsibly and reasonably, with due regard for the rights and freedoms of others,” BAZ said. “Broadcasting via the internet does not equate exemption from responsible broadcasting.”
The regulator emphasized that all broadcasters — whether operating through traditional radio and television channels or online platforms — are bound by the same ethical and legal obligations to ensure that content respects national values, protects individual rights, and contributes positively to society.
Zimbabwe’s broadcasting landscape has seen a significant shift in recent years, with more content creators and alternative media houses leveraging digital platforms to reach audiences both locally and abroad. However, BAZ argues that the growth of online broadcasting must not come at the expense of responsible journalism and ethical conduct.
“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,” the statement read.
BAZ urged all broadcasters to familiarise themselves with the Code of Conduct for Broadcasters and ensure compliance with the law. The Authority’s move comes amid heightened concerns globally about misinformation, online hate speech, and the role of digital platforms in shaping public discourse.
The Broadcasting Authority called on all media players to uphold professionalism as Zimbabwe strives to balance freedom of expression with the need to safeguard its cultural identity and social cohesion.
