Parliamentary Committee Calls for Revision of ZNBC TV Levy

By Mark Ziligone

The Parliamentary Committee on Media, Information, and Communication Technologies has called for the revision and adjustment of the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) TV levy.

Committee Chairperson, Raphael Mabenga, expressed concerns that the current TV levy of 5 kwacha is too low to sustain the financial operations of the national broadcaster.

Mr. Mabenga says the TV levy should be adjusted in relation to the kwacha’s value so that the levy would automatically increase when the kwacha appreciates in value.

He explains that the adjustment would ensure that the public media is adequately funded to meet their operational needs.

During a visit to ZNBC’s studios in Lusaka’s Mass Media area this morning, Mr. Mabenga said the revised TV levy should not only support the national broadcaster but also benefit other media organizations in Zambia.

ZNBC Board Chairperson, Joseph Kazhila, said the corporation has long faced financial stress.

Bishop Kazhila explained that the financial strain has limited the institution’s ability to perform certain operations and meet its projected goals.

He explained that the current financial constraints have hindered ZNBC’s capacity to fully execute its responsibilities, leading to unmet objectives.