Zimbabwe President Emmerson Mnangagwa has signed into law a controversial bill that mandates all motorists to purchase a radio licence before they can secure vehicle insurance.
According to BBC, the new measure, which has sparked widespread criticism, compels drivers to pay $92 (approximately £68) annually to listen to the radio in their vehicles. The fee is structured at $23 per quarter.
BBC further report that authorities say the move is aimed at broadening the revenue base for the financially struggling state broadcaster, the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC). However, critics argue that the cost is excessive, especially in light of the country’s ongoing economic hardships.
However, prominent opposition leader Nelson Chamisa has condemned the new law, describing it as “too draconian, anti-citizens and outrightly heartless.”
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Meanwhile, responding to growing discontent from motorists on social media, Information Ministry official Nick Mangwana defended the policy, insisting it is both “necessary” and “fair.”
Estimates suggest there are around 1.2 million registered vehicles in Zimbabwe, but only about 800,000 of them are currently insured, according to local media reports.
ZBC, which continues to operate at a loss, relies heavily on licence fees and government subsidies. It also garners some revenue through advertising. Nonetheless, the broadcaster has long struggled to convince citizens to pay for TV and radio licences.
Public frustration over the fee has been building for years, with many accusing ZBC of partisan reporting that favours the ruling Zanu-PF party — especially during election periods. The broadcaster has consistently denied these allegations.
Under the recently enacted Broadcasting Services Amendment Act, motorists are now required to present proof of a valid radio licence before they can renew their vehicle insurance or obtain a licence from the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (Zinara).
While the new law allows exemptions for certain groups, such as tourists or vehicles without radio receivers, it seeks to close existing loopholes and ensure better compliance.
Insurance companies are now prohibited from issuing policies to motorists who have not paid the licence fee, unless an exemption certificate has been granted by ZBC.
Despite these provisions, the new regulation has been met with strong opposition from motorists and civil society groups who view it as an unnecessary financial burden.
“Citizens are being pauperized left, right and centre,” Chamisa wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “Why does the citizenry of this country deserve so uncaring and heartless a leadership?”
Another user on the platform called the requirement “an unjust assault on motorists.”
