Sithembinkosi L Jiyane
Business Reporter
The Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) has implemented a significant new requirement for motorists, effective immediately. As of Monday, 15 July 2025, all vehicle owners must now present a valid Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) radio licence before renewing their motor insurance or acquiring a vehicle licence disc.
This policy change stems from the recently enacted Broadcasting Services Amendment Act, which integrates compliance with ZBC licensing regulations into standard vehicle registration procedures.
ZINARA’s Revenue Operations Director, Patience Shuro, clarified the requirements:
“Motorists whose vehicles are equipped with radio receivers must now produce a valid ZBC licence during the insurance renewal or disc acquisition process. For vehicles without a radio, owners must first obtain an official exemption certificate directly from the ZBC.”
Obtaining an exemption requires visiting a ZBC Licensing Office to complete a declaration form.
“Only upon presentation of this valid exemption certificate,” Shuro emphasised, “can ZINARA proceed to process the disc or insurance renewal.”
ZINARA has directed its staff nationwide to thoroughly understand the updated procedures to ensure efficient service and adherence to the law. The authority issued a stark warning: failure to comply will result in motorists being unable to legally operate their vehicles on Zimbabwean roads.
The mandatory ZBC licence carries a cost of US$23 per quarter or US$92 annually. With over 1.2 million registered vehicles in the country, this new mandate is projected to generate substantial revenue for the national broadcaster.
Motorists are advised to visit their nearest ZINARA office or ZBC Licensing Office for detailed information on the new requirements. Key steps include:
- Obtaining a valid ZBC radio licence (for vehicles with a radio).
- Securing an exemption certificate from ZBC (for vehicles without a radio).
- Providing proof of compliance (either the licence or exemption certificate) to ZINARA when renewing insurance or applying for the licence disc.
Zim GBC News