By Dakarai Tembo

…as gvt opens up airwaves

Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Monica Mutsvangwa has advised the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Cooperation (ZBC) to shape up to match imminent competition after Government opens up airwaves.

Minister Mutsvangwa made the remarks at an inaugural meeting with the new ZBC board in Harare where she also indicated that her Ministry would also ensure that the national broadcaster operates without undue interference so that it achieves its targets.

“Your appointments reflect the efforts of the New Dispensation towards mordenisation and democratization processes Zimbabwe is going through,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.

Speaking on the opening up of Television broadcasting airwaves, Minister Mutsvangwa said “more players are going to enter the field and ZBC should position itself strategically in order to maintain its market share.”

She added that ZBC should be able to keep up with the New Dispensation as it transforms itself in light of opening up of the airwaves.

The head-start for ZBC comes at a time the national broadcaster is migrating from analogue to digital broadcasting, a process which if concluded, would see at least of eight television stations operating in Zimbabwe.

She, however, warned the board members to desist from milking enterprises they serve. “State Enterprises are not feeding troughs for Board members. Your appointments are an opportunity to serve not to eat,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.

Minister Mutsvangwa also challenged the board to reform ZBC which she said was struggling from negative perception saying it should operate within the dictates of the Constitution given a new start since the 2018 harmonised elections.