By Chinoyi Chipulu
The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has taken regulatory action against four broadcasting stations for continuing to air religious and traditional healer programmes that mislead the public.
According to IBA director coperate communications Katendi Wandi, these programs promoted superstition, and exploited the emotional and financial vulnerabilities of listeners.
Wandi stated that this was contrary to the Authority’s advisory issued on May 23rd, 2025.
She stated that the four non-compliant stations had been directed to immediately review and suspend all misleading religious or traditional healer programmes that had not undergone adequate editorial scrutiny.
Wandi stated the the stations were directed to stop airing content featuring individuals making unverifiable, misleading, or fear-inducing claims.
“The IBA reiterates that broadcasting content promoting claims such as “magic money,” bringing back lost lovers, miraculous healing, or guaranteed job opportunities is a breach of the IBA Act, relevant licensing conditions, and the Authority’s Standard Operating Procedures (Section 4.2.6),” she stated.
She stated that such content undermined public trust, exploited audience vulnerabilities, and violated the ethical standards required of licensed broadcasters.
Wandi stated that stations were reminded that failure to comply attracted regulatory sanctions, as outlined in the Guidelines for Handling and Enforcement of Compliance Breaches.
“The IBA remains committed to promoting responsible broadcasting that upholds public trust and ensures that broadcasting platforms serve as credible sources of information and education,” stated Wandi
