Zimbabwe’s government has rolled out a new regulation mandating that administrators of WhatsApp groups obtain licenses from the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (POTRAZ).
This policy, aimed at controlling misinformation and enhancing accountability on social media, sets the minimum cost of a license at $50, with fees rising to as much as $2,500 depending on the type of group.
Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Monica Mutsvangwa, stated that this licensing would help identify the sources of misinformation that could incite violence or unrest.
As part of the application process, group admins will be required to submit personal information—a stipulation raising concerns about privacy. Government officials assert that the measure is essential to maintain peace and security in Zimbabwe amid a landscape increasingly influenced by digital communication.
This development echoes broader global trends where governments seek to regulate social media to address misinformation. While proponents argue this move is necessary to protect public order, critics warn it may curtail freedom of speech and discourage individuals from managing or participating in groups that discuss crucial social issues.
Online activists have raised concerns about the policy’s potential to dampen community engagement and compromise user privacy. Many are also questioning the fairness and transparency of the implementation process.
The licensing regulation highlights the growing tension between technological advancement, societal responsibility, and the preservation of civil liberties as Zimbabwe navigates the complex interplay between online communication and national security.