Mudenda shuts door on Bulawayo radio station

Bulawayo-based community radio initiative Y-FM has accused National Assembly Speaker Jacob Mudenda of disregarding its petition seeking support to obtain a community radio licence.

The radio station's director, Philani Ncube, said the organisation recently submitted a letter to Parliament requesting backing for its application to the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ), but received no response. "It is disappointing because we are trying to promote youth participation in the media, yet our voices are being ignored," Ncube said.

Y-FM has long expressed frustration with what it describes as an unfair and restrictive licensing process administered by BAZ. The dispute dates back to 2021 when the station petitioned Parliament, challenging section 10 of the Broadcasting Services Act (BSA), which grants BAZ the discretion to invite applications from potential broadcasters.

Ncube argued that communities should be free to apply for licences at any time, rather than waiting for invitations. "Communities should take the initiative to apply for licences that would align with sections 61 and 62 of the Constitution, which guarantee freedom of expression and access to information," he said.

The station also raised concerns over the US$800 annual licence fee, describing it as prohibitive for community broadcasters. "Community radios are not commercial stations; they are tools for education and development. The current fees make it impossible for most communities to participate," Ncube said.

He added that a source within the Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Ministry confirmed that the government is aware of Y-FM's concerns and is engaged in discussions to amend the Broadcasting Services Act. "The ministry has been engaging stakeholders to improve the licensing framework. We encourage all interested parties, including Y-FM, to continue engaging through formal channels," Ncube said.

Y-FM's petition highlights ongoing challenges for community media in Zimbabwe, reflecting broader calls for reforms to promote greater media accessibility and youth participation.