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The Zimbabwean government has introduced new regulations requiring WhatsApp group administrators to pay fees ranging from $50 to $2,500.
According to reports, the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Monica Mutsvangwa, who disclosed this said move is part of an effort to curb misinformation and enhance accountability on social media platforms.
The minister said the WhatsApp group admins are to obtain licences from the Postal and Telecommunications Regulation Authority (POTRAZ).
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The policy mandates WhatsApp group administrators to pay a minimum fee of $50, with costs potentially rising up to US$2,500 depending on the type of group being administered.
The new rules are designed to ensure compliance with Zimbabwe’s Data Protection Act, which governs how personal information is handled.
ccording to the law, any data that can be used to identify an individual, including phone numbers stored in WhatsApp groups, is subject to regulation. With administrators having access to such data, the government argues that WhatsApp groups should be treated like any other entity handling personal information.
Mavetera emphasized that the policy would affect not only businesses but also community organizations, churches, and other groups that collect and manage personal data. “Even churches who collect personal data ought to have such a license and appoint a DPO,” he said during the announcement.
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While the new regulations are aimed at strengthening data protection, the move has drawn sharp criticism. Many see it as an infringement on Zimbabweans’ right to free speech and association, especially in light of the growing use of social media to discuss political issues.
The country has seen a rise in WhatsApp groups used to organize political debates and activism, particularly amid rising tensions between President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his deputy, Constantino Chiwenga.
This regulatory change aligns with WhatsApp’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experience and security.
In October 2024, WhatsApp introduced several new features, including a “Search on web” tool to help users verify the authenticity of shared images, an improved chat widget for iOS users, expanded chat themes, and a new call link feature for easier video and voice calls.
However, the announcement has sparked considerable debate among citizens and online activists. Critics express concerns about the implications for freedom of speech and the potential chilling effect on public discourse.
With admins needing to provide personal information to comply with the licensing process, They fear that the licensing process could deter individuals from joining or managing groups, leading to a decline in community engagement on vital issues.
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Moreover, the requirement for personal information raises privacy concerns, as group admins may be hesitant to share sensitive data with the government, as these users may feel that their own privacy is compromised, which could deter them from participating in group discussions.
Many are questioning how the licensing process will be implemented and whether it will be enforced fairly.
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