The process of digital migration (the change from analogue to digital TV) is
still a huge challenge in Mozambique. In terms of the project implementation
process for the migration, official information disclosure to clarify the entire
set of technical operational procedures is still scarce. The main issue is the lack
of political and strategical reflection on the matter that partly derives from the
absence of public policies on communication in the country. On the one hand, it
is necessary to clarify logistics and financial queries since no sales and distribution
policies exist regarding the signal converters (mainly for the financially deprived
sectors of the population who presently have access to TV at a low cost). On the
other hand, there is the risk of creating “dark zones”, due to the non-existence of
signal distribution infrastructure for at least what pertains to the public domain.
According to the media, the government began installing some equipment in
areas bordering a few southern African countries to avoid having to pay fines
for the possible “capture” of signal from other countries, as established by the
International Telecommunication Union (ITU) regulations.
To overcome the hurdles weakening the environment and performance of the
media in Mozambique, it is necessary to strengthen a national dialogue on media,
access to information and democracy. An important focus should be to discuss
laws which are threatening the democratic framework with political decisionmakers concerning freedom of expression, press freedom and the right of access
to information, in order to fortify the foundations of democratic governance in
the country.
Another relevant issue is the advocacy aimed at influencing legislation changes
about public broadcasts to ensure that public radio and television have
independent and transparent management. In addition, it is necessary to regulate
the broadcasting services, because the law should take into consideration the
country’s present juncture. The regulatory framework will not only allow the
follow-up of the sector’s activity but also the monitoring and prosecution of
wrongdoers. It is also urgent to update the Press Law (Law nº 18/91 of 10
August), which in fact does not respond to the country’s present environment.
It is also essential to continue monitoring ethical issues through self-regulation
mechanisms. The adoption of international instruments for a free press and free
speech in Mozambique is advised.

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AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MOZAMBIQUE 2018

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