Muswere wants Zimbos to use local languages for content

The Zim government dangled a 10-million-dollar pot and told creators to stop defaulting to English and tell Zimbabwe’s story in every language.

What the minister pushed

• Jenfan Muswere told creators to use any national language.
• English-only content got called out directly.
• Multilingual storytelling got framed as identity.
• Cash backing was promised, not theoretical.

Where the money comes from

• The government ring-fenced 10 million US dollars for content.
• Funding targets TV and radio expansion.
• Broadcaster revenue topped 50 million last year.
• Advertising and licence fees fueled the pool.

What kind of content gets backed

• Dramas, cartoons, and shows in minority languages.
• Content must fit kids, youth, and adults.
• Local stories beat generic imports.
• National heritage stayed the core pitch.

Why broadcasters are pushing this

• Broadcasting got pitched as an economic driver.
• Creative work ties into national growth plans.
• Content feeds a second TV channel plan.
• Creators supply what infrastructure cannot.

Bigger policy angle

• Creative growth sits under Nthe ational Development Strategy 2.
• Digital economy and youth jobs got name-checked.
• Production hubs are planned across all provinces.
• Decentralization framed as representation, not charity.