The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has raised serious concern over the growing circulation of explicit digital content by some social media creators, warning that such material is increasingly reaching local audiences, including children.
In a statement, released on Tuesday, BAZ stressed that all broadcasting and digital content consumed in Zimbabwe falls under the country’s legal and constitutional framework, regardless of the platform hosting it.
While acknowledging that Section 61 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, the regulator emphasised that the right must be exercised responsibly and with full respect for the rights of others, as outlined under Section 86.
BAZ further underscored that the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06] mandates the protection of children from content that may harm their moral or psychological well-being, prioritising their best interests in all media environments. Additionally, the Censorship and Entertainment Control Act [Chapter 10:04] prohibits the distribution of content considered indecent, obscene or offensive to public morals.
The Authority urged broadcasters and digital creators to uphold national values and public morality, stressing their ethical and legal duty to ensure that their material complies with Zimbabwean law and respects the dignity of all citizens, especially minors.
“The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe will not permit the misuse of digital platforms in ways that violate the Constitution, national legislation or the collective moral standards of the nation. Appropriate enforcement measures will be taken to ensure compliance and safeguard the public interest,” reads part of the statement.
BAZ concluded by reaffirming the Government’s commitment to shielding children from harmful digital material and preserving the moral integrity of Zimbabwean society.
