By A Correspondent
Zimbabweans are up in arms over a controversial proposal by the Mnangagwa administration that could heavily restrict freedom of worship and private communication.
The move, which mandates that all WhatsApp group administrators obtain licenses to operate their groups, has been widely criticized as an overreach into personal digital spaces, including religious communities.
On Thursday, Zimbabwe’s Minister of ICT, Postal, and Courier Services, Hon. Tatenda Mavetera, announced that all WhatsApp group admins will soon be required to register and obtain a license from the Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ).
The minimum cost for a license is set at $50, though the fees will vary depending on the nature of the group.
Under the new regulations, group administrators will also be required to appoint a certified Data Protection Officer (DPO) to ensure compliance with Zimbabwe’s Data Protection Act.
The law defines personal data as any information that can identify an individual, including phone numbers, which are accessible to WhatsApp group admins.
In her statement, Minister Mavetera emphasized that this licensing requirement would apply not only to businesses but also to community organizations, churches, and any group that collects personal data.
“Even churches who collect personal data ought to have such a license and appoint a DPO,” Mavetera said, underscoring the government’s push to tighten data security and privacy.
However, the proposal has drawn intense backlash, particularly from religious groups and citizens concerned about their freedom to communicate and organize. Critics argue that the new regulations are a direct attack on free speech, religious freedom, and privacy.
One vocal critic, Taurai Cheteni, expressed his frustration on social media, writing: “Good evening Minister. Is it not makakandwa ku deep end? Madii kukumbira kuchinjwa ministry. ICT is not for everyone, including you. Please ask the President to assign you elsewhere because you’ve been misfiring from day one. I personally feel sorry for you but be honest with your boss and admit that you can’t cope.”
Another commenter, Evy Chats, also voiced their concerns, recalling a conversation about the proposed licenses: “I was talking to my guy about the introduction of licenses for WhatsApp admins, and he said hamuna kudzidza (you didn’t study). I defended you, saying you have a master’s in marketing, but he said that was a lie—you paid for it. Now I’m left embarrassed. Please, come and back me up, Hon.”
Albert Nyamayaro weighed in, arguing that the government’s plans are unfair: “You can’t make money from other people’s platforms. WhatsApp is someone’s intellectual property (IP), and the government through POTRAZ cannot make money from it. It does not make sense at all.”
Religious leaders, in particular, have expressed concern that the licensing requirements could stifle their ability to freely communicate and share religious messages with congregations. With churches and community groups often relying on WhatsApp to stay connected with members, the new rules would impose unnecessary costs and administrative burdens.
While the government has defended the new regulations as necessary for data protection and privacy, many Zimbabweans see them as an infringement on their digital freedoms and an attempt to control online spaces, including religious communities.
POTRAZ has encouraged WhatsApp group admins with concerns to reach out for further guidance on how to comply with the new requirements, but many remain unconvinced that the proposed licensing system is in the best interest of Zimbabweans.
As the public outcry grows, many are questioning whether this move will lead to even more restrictions on online expression and religious freedom in the country.