By Jane Chanda
The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has announced a temporary suspension of new television broadcasting licences, citing full capacity on existing signal distribution networks.
And IBA has released 32 new radio frequencies for use across Zambia, as an opportunity for media expansion in rural and underserved areas.
Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka, IBA chairperson Chikosola Chuula said the new frequencies would be allocated in provinces including, North-Western, Western, Central, Muchinga, Luapula, Eastern, and Northern provinces.
He said among those specific areas listed include Solwezi, Kaoma, Serenje, Samfya, Mansa, Katete, Chadiza, and Petauke, among others, and that additional frequencies will also be made available for expansion in Mongu, Mpika, Kabwe, and Mansa.
“This development is aimed at increasing access to information and radio services for all Zambians, especially those in remote communities where access remains limited,” said Chuula.
He advised interested broadcasters to begin preparing their applications ahead of the official call for submissions, which he said would be advertised starting Tuesday, April 15.
Chuula added that application guidelines and eligibility requirements would be available on the IBA website.
He also announced the temporary suspension of new television broadcasting licences, citing full capacity on existing signal distribution networks.
“At the moment, public and private signal carriers such as TopStar, Muvi TV, and Go Broadcasting have reached their maximum transmission capacity,” Chuula said. “We are in discussions with stakeholders to explore how best to expand this capacity and accommodate more TV channels in future.”
He also raised concerns over some media houses that had been granted licences but failed to begin operations.
Chuula noted that a compliance review was underway to identify such cases, and penalties may be applied.
“There’s a legal timeframe within which a station must begin broadcasting once licensed,” Chuula said. “We acknowledge the difficulties some broadcasters face and are proposing legislative amendments to allow for more realistic timelines.”
He also reminded broadcasters on the importance of financial stability and consistent programming and that stations that fail to deliver content they commit to during licensing could risk losing their licences.
Chuula further said, with the growing influence of online radio and Television, work was underway to introduce legislation aimed at regulating digital broadcasting platforms.
He said as technology evolved, the laws must evolve too, to promote responsible and professional broadcasting, even in the online space.
