Zambian radio and television stations have been granted permission by the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) to temporarily halt broadcasts from midnight until 6:00 AM as a cost-saving measure in response to ongoing power cuts.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, October 2, the IBA Board announced that this decision will be in place for three months. The statement reads in part:
“The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Board has approved a temporary ‘cooling off’ period for all radio and television stations to help manage operational expenses caused by challenges linked to the current power management situation.
All licensed broadcasting stations across the country may suspend transmissions from midnight to 6:00 AM, effective immediately, and this arrangement will remain in effect for the next three months.”
The decision followed extensive consultations with various stakeholders and a review of the impact that the country’s power outages are having on the broadcasting industry.
Findings showed that many stations are finding it difficult to sustain 24-hour broadcasts, primarily due to rising costs associated with running equipment during blackouts.
Zambia has been grappling with severe power shortages, with some areas experiencing outages lasting up to 20 hours daily. The issue stems from multiple factors, including reduced hydroelectric power generation due to drought and ongoing maintenance work on power facilities.
As a result, businesses are forced to rely on diesel-powered generators for long periods, further driving up their operational costs.
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