Zimbabwe has introduced a new legal requirement for vehicle owners: the Zimbabwe radio licence. Signed into law on May 23, 2025, this regulation makes it compulsory for all motorists to pay a US$92 annual fee if their car is equipped with a radio. This move follows the passage of the Broadcasting Services Amendment Act (No. 2 of 2025), placing the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) in the spotlight for its role in implementing and benefiting from the policy.
What Is the Zimbabwe Radio Licence?
The Zimbabwe radio licence is now a prerequisite for car owners when renewing their vehicle licence disc or updating car insurance. If you own a car in Zimbabwe that has a functional radio, you must pay the US$92 fee annually. Failure to do so will prevent you from renewing your licence disc, effectively making your car illegal to operate on public roads.
Financial Impact on Zimbabwean Motorists
The financial implications are substantial. With around 1.2 million registered vehicles in Zimbabwe—but only about 800,000 renewing their discs annually—the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation could earn roughly US$73 million per year. This money is expected to support the ZBC, though critics argue the broadcaster primarily serves political interests rather than offering neutral public programming.
This has led to widespread dissatisfaction. Many drivers in Harare, Bulawayo, and other urban areas have expressed concern over the added financial burden. Motorists argue that the Zimbabwe radio licence is too expensive, especially given the country’s current economic challenges.
Legal Consequences and Compliance
There’s no way around it: the fee must be paid before motorists can complete vehicle disc renewal or insurance processing. This law essentially transforms your car radio into a billable device. So, whether you listen to football, news, or music on the road, it’s now considered a taxable service.
For car owners who were planning to delay or avoid the payment, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation has implemented measures to ensure compliance. Enforcement will occur primarily through licence disc systems.
If you're looking to understand how this change affects your property or car ownership, visit AfriCarGroup for updated local regulations and listings.
Controversy and Political Reactions
Opposition parties and civil society groups have criticized the law, describing the Zimbabwe radio licence as a backdoor tax. They argue that ZBC’s content doesn't justify such high fees and demand accountability on how the revenue will be spent. The debate has sparked a broader conversation about press freedom, transparency, and whether the law may eventually be revised due to public outcry.
What do you think about Zimbabwe’s new radio licence for cars? Is it necessary, or just another burden for motorists? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
