The Zimbabwean’s government has introduced a new tax policy that mandates all WhatsApp Group Administrators in the country to register with POTRAZ and obtain a license that worth $50. This new regulation by the Zimbabwean government is aimed at curbing misinformation and align with the Data Protection Act of the country.
Post and Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) is the governmental agency responsible for regulating the country’s postal and telecommunications sectors. Its core functions include licensing and supervising operators in the postal, courier, and telecommunications industries to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
POTRAZ also promotes fair competition, oversees service quality, and safeguards consumer rights by setting tariffs and resolving complaints. Additionally, it manages Zimbabwe’s spectrum resources, encourages the adoption of new technologies, and supports universal service programs aimed at expanding access to telecommunications services in underserved areas.
The new regulatory policy imposed to all WhatsApp Admins in Zimbabwe was announced by the country's Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal, and Courier Services (ICTPCS) Tatenda Mavetera. He said the licenses cost at least $50.
The Licensing Purposes
The Licensing policy in Zimbabwe is aimed at reducing the widespread of misinformation and potential unrest in the African country. The Data Protection Act classifies personal information as any data that can identify a person, directly or indirectly. Since WhatsApp group admins have access to members’ phone numbers, the government considers them subject to the Act’s regulations.
The new regulation criminalizes common practices in business marketing and communication in Zimbabwe. Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa explained that licensing aims to track the sources of misinformation, extending data protection rules to entities like churches and businesses.
How the Licensing will Work
Upon registration with the POTRAZ, WhatsApp Admins will need to submit their personal information and details. This is required as part of the licensing procedure. The country government, on her part, will consider and justify national security.
However, many users are criticizing the ideas, emphasizing that the decision of the government to regulate WhatsApp Group could potentially leads to online discourse and infringe on privacy rights.
Meanwhile, if you can recall vividly, you will notice that the Zimbabwean government’s actions to regulate WhatsApp Groups aligns with WhatsApp's latest efforts to fight misinformation, such as the introduction of a "Search on web" tool to validate photos. But the licensing requirement has sparked debate, with many questioning its feasibility and the potential effects on online communities.
