PF administration issues 18 broadcasting licences in 19 months

Government has through the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Services issued broadcasting licences to three community radio stations and one private television station.

Information Deputy Minister Mwansa Kapeya told ZANIS in Lusaka today that Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services, Kennedy Sakeni signed the letters of issuance of the broadcasting licences to the three radio stations and one television station yesterday.

Mr. Kapeya said the radio stations issued with licences include Sun FM Radio station based in Ndola, KNC FM Radio in Kabwe, Kabangabanga FM Radio in Solwezi and Chipata Television in Eastern province.

He stated that the said radio and television stations are now authorized by law to embark on full broadcasting services to the public in line with the provisions of their licences.

Mr. Kapeya said the latest issuance of broadcasting licences brings to 18, the number of broadcasting licences the Patriotic Front (PF) administration has issued since coming into office 19 months ago.

Mr. Kapeya said this development was unprecedented and underscores government’s commitment to empowering citizens with the information to enhance effective participation in the development and governance of the country.

He said government will continue to create a favorable environment for the growth of community radio stations because these play an important role in meeting the information needs of the people especially in far flung areas of the country.

Mr. Kapeya further advised Zambians with the capacity to establish community radio stations to come forward and apply for licences.

He said it was government’s intention to see community radio stations created in all parts of the country including newly created rural districts where access to mainstream media was still a challenge.