The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has invited applications for three temporary free-to-air religious community radio broadcasting service licences in Bulawayo, Harare and Masvingo as Government continues to expand the country’s broadcasting landscape.
In a public notice, BAZ Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Matthias Chakanyuka said the invitation follows the allocation of relevant frequencies in terms of General Notice 894 of 2026 and forms part of trials being conducted by the regulator in licensing community radio stations.
“The invitation is part of trials being conducted by the Authority in the licensing of community radio stations in areas of interest,” said Eng Chakanyuka.
BAZ said the initiative is aimed at assessing the viability of community broadcasting services while promoting greater diversity and access to the airwaves.
The regulator will issue one licence each for Bulawayo, Harare and Masvingo. Successful applicants will receive five-year licences and pay an application fee of US$2 000 and an annual regulatory fee of US$7 060.
The move is part of Government’s broader broadcasting reforms aimed at expanding media diversity and increasing community participation in the sector.
BAZ said that community radio provides an additional platform to engage citizens, disseminate public information and promote local development initiatives, while for broadcasters it creates opportunities for investment, job creation and the production of content that reflects community needs, languages and cultures.
A media sector analyst said the expansion of community broadcasting could strengthen grassroots participation in the media space.
“Community radio has the potential to bridge information gaps by allowing communities to tell their own stories, discuss local challenges and participate in national conversations. However, sustainability, professionalism and editorial independence will be critical to the success of these stations,” the analyst said.
The development is also expected to increase competition within the broadcasting industry, encouraging existing players to improve programming quality and deepen audience engagement.
The latest licensing process comes as Government continues efforts to broaden Zimbabwe’s broadcasting sector through the establishment of community and campus radio stations, which are expected to improve access to information and strengthen citizen participation.
