Zambia's government has issued 10 full licences and 16 construction permits to radio and television stations across the country.

The new stations are expected to switch on to the digital broadcasting format before the 2013 deadline, set by the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC).

Kennedy Sakeni, minister of Information and Broadcasting Services said the move taken by the government is intended to enhance participation in the affairs of the country, as well as offer people an opportunity to air their views on issues of national interest.

“The number of radio and television licences issued is much higher compared to the previous government’s record of only two full radio licences and only eight construction permits issued between 2010 and September 2011,” he said.

Sakeni said issuing licences is a clear demonstration of the Patriotic Front government’s commitment to transparency and accountability by ensuring free flow and public access to information.

“We are resolved to dismantle this sad state of affairs so that the media, both public and private, play its full and rightful role in national development,” he said.  

“Our agenda in this regard, is to have a media that will serve national interest and not a media that acts as vuvuzelas of the party in power,” Sakeni added.