BAZ warns against use of illegal TV decoders

The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has expressed serious concern over the continued illegal provision and use of unlicensed broadcasting services in the country, warning that the practice is a clear violation of Zimbabwean law and poses a threat to the sustainability of the broadcasting industry.

In a statement, BAZ Chief Executive Officer Eng. Mauhias Chakanyuka said the Authority has noted a growing influx of unapproved television decoders being used to access unlicensed broadcasting services, some of which are offered through illegal subscription models and involve pirated content.

"Such activities undermine the integrity, sustainability and lawful operation of the broadcasting industry in Zimbabwe," Eng. Chakanyuka said.

BAZ identified OVHD, StarSat, DigiSat, Mediastar, Senator, and other similar devices as among the decoders commonly associated with illegal broadcasting activities. These devices, the Authority said, are being distributed and used to facilitate access to broadcasting services that are not licensed to operate in Zimbabwe.

Eng. Chakanyuka cited Section 70 of the Broadcasting Services Act (Chapter 12:06), which clearly states that "no person shall provide a broadcasting service without a licence." He said this provision applies to all individuals and entities involved in the provision, facilitation, or distribution of broadcasting services within the country.

In addition, Section 5(1)(b) read together with (c) of the Broadcasting Services (Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting Services) Regulations, 2020 (Statutory Instrument 26 of 2020) requires all suppliers of set-top boxes (decoders) to be registered with BAZ through a formal type-approval process.

BAZ has categorically stated that the distribution, sale, and use of decoders that enable unlicensed broadcasting services constitute a violation of the law.

"The Authority will not hesitate to invoke the relevant laws to investigate, prosecute, and bring to book all offenders involved in these unlawful activities," Eng. Chakanyuka said.

He urged members of the public to desist from purchasing, installing, or subscribing to illegal broadcasting services, warning that such actions directly support unlawful conduct and are detrimental to the growth and regulation of Zimbabwe's broadcasting sector.

BAZ reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a fair, lawful, and well-regulated broadcasting environment that protects consumers, licensed broadcasters, and the national interest, while encouraging citizens to use only licensed and approved broadcasting services.