Story by John Nhandara
THE Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) has launched its Over-the-Top (OTT) streaming platform, Z+, marking a major milestone in the national broadcaster’s digital transformation and the way it delivers content to audiences.
The platform, unveiled in Harare on Thursday, expands ZBC’s digital media portfolio by providing seamless access to its content across multiple devices.
Speaking at the launch, ZBC Chief Operating Officer, Engineer Tapiwa Mudzamba said the platform offers live television, radio and video-on-demand services.
“On the platform, we have a number of content categories ranging from live programming to video-on-demand content. Under live television, we have all the live television channels that ZBC currently offers. Users also have access to our radio stations. Other content categories include dramas, current affairs programmes, documentaries, music shows and much more,” he said.
ZBC Board Chairperson, Ms Helliate Rushwaya, described the launch as a defining moment in the broadcaster’s digital evolution.
“This is an exciting new chapter for ZBC. This event is far more than a technological development. It is a manifestation of an institution embracing innovation and responding to the evolving demands of a pivotal era. It reflects a ZBC that is evolving towards digital accessibility and ensures Zimbabwe remains connected to the stories and cultural identity that define us as a people,” she said.
ZBC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sugar Chagonda, said the platform is a product of collaboration and a key pillar of the corporation’s digitalisation strategy.
“This is a collaborative approach to propelling ZBC’s digitalisation agenda. Tonight’s launch reflects what can be accomplished when institutions work together. As we continue to ensure that our stories reach everyone, let us take ZBC to every corner of the world,” he said.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Zhemu Soda said the platform advances Zimbabwe’s media transformation agenda.
“This initiative represents a strategic development in the national media transformation agenda, positioning Zimbabwe within the evolving global digital ecosystem. It aligns with the Second Republic’s vision of modernising and ensuring equitable access to information while promoting media diversity and accessibility through a citizen-centred solution. The platform integrates television, radio and content creation into a single digital ecosystem,” he said.
The launch of Z+ comes days after ZBC entered into a strategic partnership with DStv Zimbabwe, under which the national broadcaster’s television channels are now being carried in high definition on the DStv platform.
