In a recent regulatory move, the Zimbabwean government has mandated that all WhatsApp group administrators must register with the Postal and Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) and obtain a license to legally manage their groups in the country.
The development, introduced by Tatenda Mavetera, Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal, and Courier Services (ICTPCS), aims to address misinformation and align with the national Data Protection Act (DPA).
The directive targets the growing spread of misinformation on social platforms. With WhatsApp often used for sharing news, discussions, and business activities, the government believes that making group admins accountable can prevent the circulation of false information.
This policy aligns with Zimbabwe’s DPA, which classifies phone numbers and other data that can identify individuals as sensitive information. Admins, having access to this data, are therefore required to register and pay a licensing fee to POTRAZ, amounting to at least $50 (approximately 4,219 rupees).
According to Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa, the licensing process will help authorities track the origins of false information and ensure better data protection.
The directive also extends to various institutions, including religious and commercial organizations, impacting how entities use WhatsApp for communication. While officials argue this measure enhances national security and data protection, there is notable concern among critics.
Moreover, the critics argue the policy could restrict free speech, limit privacy, and add financial burdens on individuals and businesses that rely on WhatsApp for marketing and communication.
Many fear that this regulation could affect small businesses and local communities that depend on the platform to operate efficiently. While the government sees the directive as essential for safeguarding information, the debate around its implications on freedom and privacy continues to unfold in Zimbabwe.
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