By Ebi Kesiena
Mozambique’s National Communications Institute, INCM has suspended more than 300 radio and television broadcasting licences over failure to comply with regulatory requirements, including prolonged inactivity and unpaid fees.
The decision, announced in an official statement by the communications regulator, targets operators that failed to utilise their licences for more than six consecutive months, in violation of national broadcasting rules.
According to the INCM, the action forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regulatory discipline within the country’s media and telecommunications sector. The regulator said the measure is aimed at ensuring the efficient and lawful use of the radio frequency spectrum while creating opportunities for compliant operators.
“The revocation of licences is part of ongoing efforts by the INCM to reinforce regulatory discipline, guarantee proper use of the radio spectrum, and promote access for entities that meet legal and regulatory requirements,” the statement noted.
Authorities explained that the suspension is also intended to optimise spectrum management by reallocating unused broadcasting frequencies to organisations capable of maintaining active and compliant operations.
While the scale of the enforcement action is significant, the INCM did not release the names of the affected radio and television entities. This has left uncertainty within the media industry regarding whether any operational news outlets or active broadcasters are among those impacted.
Industry observers say the decision could reshape the country’s media environment by opening space for new entrants while compelling existing operators to meet licensing and operational obligations.
