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The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has urged broadcasting stations across the country to strengthen measures that protect children from harmful content as the world commemorates the 2026 International Children’s Day of Broadcasting (ICDB) on March 1, 2026.
This year’s commemoration is being held under the theme “Safeguarding Children in Media and Beyond,” a call that aligns with the IBA’s mandate to ensure that radio and television content protects the integrity, welfare, and development of minors.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Sunday, IBA Director General Webster Malido emphasized that broadcasters have both a legal and moral obligation to ensure programming did not expose children to material that may harm their physical, mental, or moral development.
“In line with the IBA’s programme standards, broadcasting stations are reminded to protect the integrity of minors by clearly classifying and distributing programmes that could endanger a child’s development in a manner that minimises the possibility of access by children,” he said.
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Malido urged stations to avoid broadcasting content that corrupted the minds of minors and to pay careful attention to the privacy and dignity of children featured in news and other programming.
He stressed the importance of adhering to watershed hours between 22:00 and 05:00 and ensuring television programmes were properly rated and classified to guide parents and guardians.
“Commemorate ICDB by producing and airing quality programming for children and allowing them to actively participate in the process, while addressing issues that promote their safety and well-being,” Malido emphasized.
He added that as Zambia joined the global community in marking ICDB 2026, the Authority reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders to promote a safe, responsible, and child-friendly broadcasting environment.
Malido said safeguarding children required not only regulatory compliance but also a commitment to quality, age-appropriate programming that contributes positively to their development.
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