By Ollus Ndomu
Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has signed into law a controversial amendment requiring all motorists to obtain a radio licence before renewing vehicle insurance—triggering widespread backlash from opposition leaders and frustrated drivers.
Under the newly enacted Broadcasting Services Amendment Act, motorists must now pay $23 per quarter, amounting to $92 annually, to legally operate a vehicle fitted with a radio receiver. This fee must be paid before obtaining insurance coverage or renewing a road licence through the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (Zinara).
The law is part of the government’s strategy to widen the funding base for the state-run Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), which has long suffered from financial woes and low compliance on licence fees. ZBC currently depends on a mix of government subsidies, advertising revenue, and a limited number of licence holders.
Government officials argue the measure is fair and necessary. “If you have a TV or radio in your vehicle, then you must pay to access public broadcasting,” said Nick Mangwana, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information. “It’s about compliance and sustainability of national institutions.”
But critics say the policy is both exploitative and poorly timed, given the dire economic conditions facing many Zimbabweans. With 1.2 million registered vehicles in the country and only 800,000 insured, the law is seen by many as a hidden tax designed to plug budgetary holes.
“This law is too draconian, anti-citizens, and outrightly heartless,” said opposition leader Nelson Chamisa in a post on X (formerly Twitter). “Citizens are being pauperized left, right and centre. Why does the citizenry of this country deserve so uncaring a leadership?”
Motorists have also taken to social media to express outrage, calling the requirement “an unjust assault” and accusing the government of prioritizing revenue over public welfare. Some have threatened to boycott the payment, arguing they don’t even listen to ZBC due to its perceived pro-government bias.
For years, the ZBC has faced accusations of failing to provide balanced coverage, particularly during election seasons. Opposition parties have long criticized the broadcaster for acting as a propaganda arm of the ruling Zanu-PF, a claim ZBC has repeatedly denied.
While the new law includes provisions for exemptions, such as for foreign tourists or vehicles without radio receivers, critics say the implementation process remains unclear and could create more bureaucracy and enforcement challenges.
As the law goes into effect, motorists will be required to present a valid ZBC licence or exemption certificate before purchasing insurance—effectively tying two unrelated services into a single compliance chain.
Observers warn the new law could deepen public distrust in state institutions and worsen the already strained relationship between the government and ordinary Zimbabweans. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether resistance grows into open defiance—or if compliance takes root under financial pressure.
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