BAZ licences new 8 radio stations

Image credited;diginited.com

Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe(BAZ) announced the eight  successful applications for radio broadcasting licenses. This follows the acceptance of 21 applications last year as part of a move to open the airwaves in smaller towns to private operators through the issuing of local commercial radio broadcasting. BAZ did not present the dates, but the radio stations are expected to sart broadcasting soon.

In terms of creating a competitive environment for the broadcasting landscape, this is a welcome development. The impact that ZIFM and Stereo FM had when they came onto the scene shows how competition inspires the best from providers.

These stations are more than just added commercial broadcast presence in towns like Zvishavane, Masvingo Gweru, and Bulawayo. They present competition to state-owned ZBC (which is currently the broadcaster with the widest national coverage through its four radio stations), as well as the two private national radio broadcasters ZiFM and Zimpapers’ Star FM Radio.

Interestingly, Zimpapers (Government owned) and AB Communications (owners of ZiFM) were also part of the list of licence recipients. It’s supposed to be a reflection of their ability to deliver in the domain, but one would have assumed that other independent applicants would be considered first.

We are always told that the awarding of such licences is based on merit and considers aspects such as the capacity of the applicant to meet requirements, and a “thorough selection process” which was outlined by the BAZ Chairman in the statement he made to announce the recipients of these licences.

The licensed radio stations and the areas they will be broadcasting to are listed below:

• Faya Fm - Gweru
• Gogogoi Fm - Masvingo
• Breeze Fm - Victoria Falls
• Skyz Metro Fm - Bulawayo
• KE100.4 FM - Harare
• Nyaminyami Fm - Kariba
• YA Fm - Zvishavane
• Diamond Fm - Mutare 

- See more at: http://www.techzim.co.zw/2015/03/baz-opens-airwaves-to-more-competition-licences-8-new-radio-stations/?utm_content=buffer8071c&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer#sthash.wtf3RJo0.dpuf