Broadcasting Regulator Warns Social Media Creators Over Explicit Content, Threatens Legal Action.

The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has issued a stern warning to social media content creators circulating indecent and explicit material online, stating it will take enforcement action against violators of the country's laws. The warning follows a surge in sexually explicit content being shared by Zimbabwean creators, with the regulator emphasizing that all digital content consumed in Zimbabwe must uphold public morality and protect children from harmful material.

THE Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has issued a stern warning to social media content creators circulating indecent and explicit material online, saying it will not hesitate to take enforcement action against those who violate the country’s laws.

The warning comes amid a surge in sexually explicit content being shared on social media platforms by several Zimbabwean content creators.

Among them is a popular creator, Queen Nadia TV, which posts nude and erotic strip-tease video clips and has amassed over three million followers on Facebook in a few days.

In a statement, BAZ said it had noted with serious concern the growing trend of explicit digital content being produced and disseminated online, warning that such material is being accessed by audiences in Zimbabwe, including children.

The media regulator stressed that all broadcasting and digital content consumed within Zimbabwe falls under the country’s legal and constitutional framework, regardless of the platform used to distribute it.

“In terms of the Broadcasting Services Act [Chapter 12:06], children have a right to protection from exposure to content that is harmful to their moral and psychological development, with the best interests of the child being paramount.

“Broadcasters and content creators must therefore uphold public morality and national values as entrenched in the laws of Zimbabwe,” the statement read.

BAZ reminded content creators that they carry both a legal and moral obligation to comply with Zimbabwean laws, particularly the duty to prevent children from being exposed to harmful material.

“The Authority will, in the discharge of its constitutional and statutory mandate, take appropriate enforcement measures to ensure compliance and to safeguard the public interest,” BAZ said.

The regulator added that the government remains committed to preserving the moral fabric of the nation. 
Source - NewZimbabwe