Clause 21 – Section 2 Local content provisions The amendment proposes changes to the Sixth Schedule. It deletes paragraph 2 (2), which currently requires a broadcasting service with more than one channel to ensure that at least 30% of its programming on each channel is local content. The proposed provision provides that a licensee with a sports channel shall broadcast 50% of its content from Africa. Participants supported this clause, arguing that most local talent was obscure because the country had failed to promote local content. Clause 12 – Section 30 Utilization of the Broadcasting Fund In many towns, it is widely believed that the increased use of the Broadcasting Fund as a means to enhance broadcasting and develop the sector is a positive development. Representatives from community radio stations expressed their desire for the Broadcasting Fund to be utilised to support the sustainability of these stations. Content creators asserted that 30% of the Broadcasting Fund should be managed by the National Arts Council and directed towards supporting content creators. 5. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 5.1 Unlike previous public hearings that MISA Zimbabwe and MAZ have observed, the hearings attracted a larger number of participants. This high-level interest in the Bill from the public is commendable, as it enhances citizens’ participation in law-making and the broader democratic processes in the country. 8