The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has expressed alarm over the growing circulation of explicit material on social media platforms that can be accessed within Zimbabwe, including by minors.
In a statement released on 3 February 2026, the Authority said it is deeply concerned about certain digital content creators who are sharing material that contravenes the country’s laws and constitutional principles.
“All broadcast and online content viewed in Zimbabwe is subject to national legislation and constitutional provisions, regardless of the platform on which it is published.
While acknowledging the right to freedom of expression guaranteed under Section 61 of the Constitution, the Authority stressed that this right is not absolute and must be exercised responsibly, in line with the limitations set out in Section 86,” said BAZ.
The Authority further noted that the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06] prioritises the protection of children from content that may negatively affect their moral or psychological well-being, placing the best interests of the child above all else.
Reference was also made to the Censorship and Entertainment Control Act [Chapter 10:04], which outlaws the distribution of material deemed indecent, obscene, offensive, or harmful to public morality.
Acting Chief Executive Officer Eng. Matthias Chakanyuka said the Authority would not tolerate the abuse of digital platforms in ways that undermine the Constitution, national laws, or the shared moral values of Zimbabwean society.
“Broadcasters and digital content producers to uphold their legal and ethical obligations by ensuring their material complies with local laws and respects the dignity and rights of all citizens, particularly children,” he said.
BAZ stated that it will implement appropriate enforcement actions in accordance with its constitutional and statutory responsibilities to protect the public interest.
The Authority added that the Government remains firmly committed to shielding children from harmful online content and upholding the nation’s moral standards.
