Govt Moves to Deepen Media Access with Licensing of 10 More Community Radio Stations

Posted by Admin on 2025-08-01 11:27:56 |

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By MKHOKHELI ZIBENGWA 

 In a significant development for Zimbabwe’s media landscape, the government has officially gazetted the licensing of ten additional community radio stations, a move aimed at strengthening grassroots access to information and amplifying local voices.

The announcement, which takes effect from 1 August 2025, marks a major step forward in the ongoing efforts to decentralise broadcasting and promote media diversity in underserved regions.

The newly earmarked areas for community radio licensing include:

✅ Chivhu

✅ Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe

✅ Gokwe-Nembudziya

✅ Chivi

✅ Marondera

✅ Kanyemba

✅ Makoni

✅ Gutu

✅ Dande

✅ Sanyati

Communities in these areas have until 30 September 2025 to submit their applications for licensing.

The Zimbabwe Association of Community Radio Stations (ZACRAS) has welcomed the move, describing it as a long-overdue response to persistent calls for broader media inclusion. The association said the decision aligns with years of advocacy work and is a testament to the growing recognition of the role community radio plays in enhancing access to relevant, localized information.

“This initiative will empower local communities to tell their own stories, address local development challenges, and preserve cultural identities,” ZACRAS said in a statement.

The newly licensed stations are expected to serve as vital platforms for community development, public participation, and disaster preparedness—especially in rural areas often sidelined by mainstream media.

Interested communities are encouraged to reach out to ZACRAS for guidance and technical support during the application process.