Harare, Zimbabwe – Zimbabwe’s Minister of ICT, Postal, and Courier Services, Hon. Tatenda Mavetera, has announced that all WhatsApp group administrators will soon be required to register and obtain a license from the Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) to operate their groups.
The new licensing requirements, outlined at a recent POTRAZ breakfast meeting, set the minimum cost for a license at $50, with fees varying depending on the nature of the group.
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In addition to obtaining a license, WhatsApp group admins will be required to appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) trained and certified by POTRAZ.
This move is intended to ensure compliance with Zimbabwe’s Data Protection Act, which governs the handling of personal information.
Under the Act, personal data is defined as any information that can be used to directly or indirectly identify a person.
Since WhatsApp group admins have access to members’ phone numbers, the government argues that these groups fall under data protection regulations.
Minister Mavetera emphasized that this requirement would apply not only to businesses but also to community organizations, churches, and any other groups that collect personal data.
“Even churches who collect personal data ought to have such a license and appoint a DPO,” she stated, noting that the government aims to tighten data security and privacy for all citizens.
The announcement has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the impact of these new regulations on free communication and privacy in online spaces.
Critics argue that such licensing requirements could place an undue burden on informal group admins, while supporters claim it is a necessary step to protect personal information in the digital age.
Failure to comply with these regulations, including both licensing and data protection measures, may attract penalties, according to Minister Mavetera.
POTRAZ encourages any groups with questions or concerns to reach out to them directly for further guidance on compliance.
This new policy places Zimbabwe among a growing number of countries aiming to regulate digital spaces and data privacy, though the specific focus on social media group admins remains unique.
As the rollout of these requirements continues, many will be watching closely to see how they impact digital communication and data protection practices in Zimbabwe.
