Zimbabwe Regulator Puts Social Media Creators on Notice Over Explicit Content
THE Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has issued a strong warning to social media content creators over the spread of explicit material online, saying all digital content consumed in the country is subject to national laws.
The caution follows growing public concern over videos circulating on platforms such as Facebook, including content produced by popular online personality Queen Nadia TV, whose videos have attracted more than one billion views.
BAZ Acting Chief Executive Officer Eng. Matthias Chakanyuka said content creators have a responsibility to respect public morality and Zimbabwe’s cultural values, regardless of the platform they use.
“Broadcasters and content creators must uphold public morality and national values as entrenched in our laws,” Chakanyuka said.
He stressed that social media is not exempt from regulation, adding that Zimbabwe’s Constitution, the Broadcasting Services Act, and the Censorship and Entertainment Control Act all prohibit the distribution of explicit material, especially content accessible to children.
The authority said the warning should be taken as a clear signal that online creators will be held accountable for what they publish, just like traditional broadcasters.
“We are committed to ensuring that online content respects our laws and values,” Chakanyuka said.
The move has been welcomed by parents and community leaders, many of whom have raised concerns about the impact of explicit online content on children. They say stronger oversight is long overdue as social media continues to play a growing role in everyday life.
