This report presents an overview of the political economy surrounding community radio broadcasting in Zimbabwe. The study employed a mixed-methods approach to investigate the perspectives of various stakeholders, including community members, radio station managers, policymakers, policy implementers, and civil society. The research focused on funding, operations, control, and content production within community radio broadcasting. The report emphasizes the potential of community radio to facilitate citizen participation in the democratic process. However, it notes that the government has been reluctant to grant licenses for community radio stations, resulting in the emergence of alternative initiatives throughout Zimbabwe. These initiatives utilize new media platforms such as the internet and commuter omnibus casting to provide citizens with an expanded platform for expression. The report highlights that community radio stations in Zimbabwe operate within an environment dominated by the State and that media reform is yet to be fully realised. Only ZBC, a publicly-owned entity, is permitted to obtain listener licenses for its radio stations. Additionally, there is a dearth of contemporary studies examining how revenue generation impacts the operations of community media and its role in fostering democratic space for communities. To ensure the survival and growth of these radio stations, the report recommends creating an enabling environment that promotes citizen participation and democracy. It also calls for genuine media reform in Zimbabwe to establish a fair playing field for all media players. In conclusion, while community radio broadcasting has the potential to promote pluralism, diversity, participation, and citizen engagement in Zimbabwe, further efforts are necessary to guarantee its success.
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