The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) directed three online tv stations, Michuzi TV, AYO TV and Global TV to stop online broadcasting as the authority was still preparing regulations for digital television. A letter signed on January 30 by TCRA Chief Director, James Kilaba, directs digital stations to immediately stop providing TV services online. “According to section 13(1) of the Electronic and Postal Communications Act (Cap 306), Tanzania’s laws require providers of all such services to get permits from TCRA,” the letter reads.
“Global TV is ready even today to complete procedures of registration – had they been there – since they are still incomplete to be enacted. We request to be given ample time, while under supervision as we await such new regulations to take effect,” said Mrisho, the general manager of Global Publishers. Mr Ankal Issa Michuzi (of Michuzi TV) and Mr Millard Ayo (of Ayo TV) echoed Mr Mrisho’s statement and the trio requested to have an audience with the TCRA chief director so that they could present their applications for the permission of continuing to temporarily provide such services, while waiting for the regulations.
“Since we have been providing this service for a long time and it is not known when such regulations will be ready, we request TCRA to see what it can do so that the audience that greatly depends on us should not miss this service,” Mr Michuzi said. However, the three online digital stations will continue providing their services out of the process of online TV.
