Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) denies issuing licence to Kwese TV

In a statement released today, the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) denied issuing Kwese TV a licence to operate in the country despite reports that it did not require a licence.

BAZ CEO, Mr Obert Muganyura said in terms of the Broadcasting Services Act [chapter 12:06], no person shall provide a broadcasting service in Zimbabwe other than in accordance with a licence issued by BAZ. Muganyura stated that the content distribution licence issued to Dr. Dish, which was specific to the provision of the My TV Africa Service was cancelled by BAZ for failure by Dr. Dish to provide service. Part of the statement by BAZ reads:

BAZ therefore wishes to advise the public not to invest in a service that cannot be provided without a licence and warns anyone who may contemplate providing an unlicensed broadcasting service to acquaint themselves with the course of action that the authority is bound to take in terms of the law.

Strive Masiiyiwa was also initially denied a license to set up Econet Wireless and had to fight the government through the courts to be awarded the licence.   You can read an account of his legal battles here.