BAZ Licenses New Satellite TV Station

By Tafadzwa Chigandiwa

The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has officially licensed popular Tanzanian premium television, Azam TV.

The new development comes three years after the quest to initially see the satelite television provider operate in the country was made.

BAZ acting chief executive officer, Engineer Mathias Chakanyuka confirmed the licensing.

“We advertise formally for people to apply for licences. Satellite television services do not require the limited spectrum resource, so we can have many.

“As a regulator, the only thing we look at is the market. People should have options to choose from,” he said.

Azam Media chief finance officer, Kedanathrao Bedare said they are finalising their operational plans and setting up.

According to Bedare, they are hoping to have the pay tv functional by December.

“We are in the process of finalising our operational plan and structure.

“We have done this in other countries, so setting up is not too complicated.

“Once we are done setting up, we will determine the bouquet prices,” he said.

He added: “As per regulations, we are going to be carrying the national broadcasters and about two more local channels.

“We also want to initiate discussions with Zimpapers Television Network and see how we can partner with them.”

Owned by Bakhresa Group of companies the sub-Saharan TV subscriber will then compete with Multi-Choice’s DSTV.

The television is already operational in a number of African countries including Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi, Kenya and Rwanda.

It provides bouquets such as Sports Entertainment, News, Music and Religious channels etc.