The ManicaPost
Luthando Mapepa
Chipinge Correspondent
THE Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has urged recently licensed community radio stations to speed up their processes and go on air to avoid having their licences revoked.
Speaking on the sidelines of a training workshop for Chimanimani FM staff on Tuesday, BAZ acting chief executive officer, Mr Mathias Chakanyuka said only one of the 14 licensed community radio is now broadcasting.
Mr Chakanyuka also said training of prospective community radio broadcasters is ongoing in Chimanimani as the newly licensed station intensifies preparations to go on air.
“The 18-month period required by the law for licensed community radio stations to go on air is fast approaching and all the holders are urged to take off.
“So far, we have one community radio station in Chiredzi which is now on air, but I must say progress has been made in the other 13 community radio stations as they are now around 60 percent ready.
“We are confident that the remaining 13 licensed community radio stations will be on air before the 18-month window lapses as required by the law.
“We are also assisting with training and we are closely monitoring the process,” said Mr Chakanyuka.
Players in the broadcasting sector in Chimanimani has commended Government for walking the talk on the opening of airwaves with young people expressing confidence that the development will avail more opportunities for them.
One of the students, Mr Farai Nduku of Chimanimani, said the licensing of community radio stations is a blessing to aspiring broadcasters.
“I am passionate about the media industry and I am happy that Government has afforded us the opportunity to showcase our talents. We welcome this development because we can now tell the world our own stories through these radio stations.
“We are very far from Harare, but now that the radio has been brought to our doorstep, we will use the platform to promote unity and community development,” he said.
Zimbabwe Association of Community Radio Stations (ZACRAS) national director, Mr Mlondolozi Ndlovu said they are also conducting nationwide training programmes with communities on broadcasting, ethical and operational issues.
“We are happy that Government heard our pleas for the establishment of community radio stations and on our part we are training them on broadcasting, ethical conduct and handling of equipment,” he said.
