ZBC Collects Over US$13 Million From Motorists

The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) generated more than US$13 million from vehicle radio licences in the first half of 2025, according to the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Zhemu Soda.

During a Question and Answer session in the National Assembly on Wednesday, the Minister was questioned by Discent Bajila, the MP for Emakhandeni-Luveve, regarding the total revenue collected from these licences.

Minister Soda said the funds raised so far have been used to upgrade broadcasting equipment, improve programme quality, and provide staff training.

“The total revenue collected from radio licensing fees during the period is US$13.6 million, of which 20 per cent was United States Dollar, while 80 per cent was local currency converted at the interbank rate,” said Soda.

“Revenue from ZBC radio fees boosts public radio access by expanding terrestrial infrastructure through Transmedia and advancing Zim-digital Phase 2 for superior signal reach.

“Funds also support BAZ community stations and ZIFTESA provincial content hubs. This adds an income stream to fill past revenue shortfalls caused by low compliance.

“The funds enable us to reach the programming, including local content production and 10 new film hubs that have been targeted and which are currently being established.”

Minister Soda said that 10% of the revenue collected by the ZBC is allocated to the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ), while 20% is shared with Transmedia.

“The 10 per cent that is taken by BAZ is where the money for community radio stations is taken from, the equipment, the awareness and the support that is given to them,” he said.

Minister Soda said the funds are also being used for development projects, such as upgrading the Montrose studios in Bulawayo.

He said the project has seen the station move from old analogue systems to modern digital technology following the purchase of new transmitters.

The Minister added that several other projects are underway, including a new transmitter in Maphisa, the site of this year’s Independence celebrations. The transmitter has already been set up and provides a broadcasting range of 80km.

“This is one of the examples for which the money is being used, but many projects are being realised from the funds that are being collected,” said Soda.

More: The Herald

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