SECTOR 3

Broadcasting regulation is transparent
and independent; the state broadcaster
is transformed into a truly public
broadcaster.
3.1
Broadcasting legislation has been passed
and is implemented that provides for a conducive
environment for public, commercial and community
broadcasting.
There is now provision for a three-tier system of broadcasting – public,
commercial and community broadcasters – within the broadcasting policy and the
Communications Act.
Some panellists felt NBC radio is “a truly public broadcaster” in that “each station
reaches the public”. Television, on the other hand, “is more elitist”. There is a lack
of locally produced programmes on television, although this is improving.
It is easier for commercial broadcasters to get a license than it is for community
broadcasters. However, community broadcasters pay less than commercial
broadcasters for their licenses. Community broadcasters Live FM and Karas
Community Radio pay N$3000 (US$435) and N$5000 (US$725) a year for their
licenses respectively, while commercial stations pay about N$ 30 000 (US$4350)
per year. The cost of the license fee varies according to the power of the transmitter
and broadcast reach – the more powerful the transmitter, the further the broadcast
reach, and therefore the higher the fee.

Scores:
Individual scores:
1

Country does not meet indicator

2

Country meets only a few aspects of indicator

3

Country meets some aspects of indicator

4

Country meets most aspects of indicator.

5

Country meets all aspects of the indicator

Average score:

42

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER NAMIBIA 2011

3.6 (2005: 2.9; 2007: 2.8; 2009: 2.9)

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