LUSAKA: In order to ensure a successful digital migration process, the Zambian government suspended customs duties on transmission equipment for a period of two years. The announcement was made by the Alexander Chikwanda, minister of Finance and National Planning.
Chikwanda further claimed that this action by the authorities will enable broadcasters to import more transmission equipment and thus accelerate the digital switch over process happening in Zambia.
Southern African countries have struggled with the migration deadline set by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) due to various challenges, including the importation of migration equipment.
In his remark, Josephine Mapoma, director general of the Independent Broadcasting Authority in Zambia said that most television and radio stations have been struggling to expand their coverage or apply to open stations because of the high cost of importing equipment.
“I therefore call upon broadcasters to take advantage of the tax break to upgrade infrastructure and import digital broadcasting equipment,” Mapoma added.
In June Zambia completed phase one of its digital migration process and phase two and three will begin before the year end. The Zambian government has already awarded the digital migration contract for these critical phases to China’s Star Software Technologies at a cost of $273 million. The tech firm implemented phase one of Zambia’s digital migration project for $9.6 million.
