Here’s How Much POTRAZ Will Charge for WhatsApp Group Licenses in Zimbabwe
In a bid to regulate the use of WhatsApp groups across Zimbabwe, the Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (POTRAZ) has introduced a new licensing requirement for WhatsApp group administrators.
Effective soon, administrators will need to secure a license to operate, with fees varying based on the size of the group.
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WhatsApp Group License Fees: What to Expect
The new regulation, confirmed by Information Communications Technology Minister Tatenda Mavetera, will affect not only businesses but also community organizations, churches, and any groups that manage personal data via WhatsApp.
The licensing fees for WhatsApp groups are structured in four tiers based on the size of the group.
According to TechZim, the fees range from US$50 to a maximum of US$2,500 annually, depending on the number of participants in the group.
- Tier 1: Groups with 50 to 1,000 members will pay an annual fee of US$50 with no application fee.
- Tier 2: Groups with 1,001 to 100,000 members will be required to pay US$300 annually, along with a US$30 application fee.
- Tier 3: For groups with 100,001 to 500,000 members, the fee increases to US$500 per year, with a US$30 application fee.
- Tier 4: Groups with more than 500,000 members will face the highest fee, US$2,500 annually, plus a US$30 application fee.
Mandatory Appointment of Data Protection Officer (DPO)
Alongside the licensing requirement, administrators of WhatsApp groups will also need to appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO).
The DPO must be trained and certified by POTRAZ to ensure compliance with Zimbabwe’s Data Protection Act.
This applies to all groups that handle personal data, such as businesses and community organizations.
Exemptions from the Licensing Requirement
However, not all WhatsApp groups will be subject to these new regulations. WhatsApp groups focused on ‘personal, family, or household affairs’ are excluded from the newly introduced licensing requirement.
Moreover, groups related to law enforcement, journalism, or historical and archival purposes do not need to secure a license.
Impact of Non-Compliance
Minister Mavetera stressed that failure to comply with these regulations would lead to penalties.
She urged WhatsApp group administrators, particularly those running business-related groups, to apply for the necessary licenses to avoid legal consequences.
Audrey L Ncube
Audrey Lee-Ann Ncube is a multilingual writer and reviewer extraordinaire. By day she works as a writer for iHarare.com, crafting creative and engaging content that captivates readers across Zimbabwe. By night, Audrey can be found with her nose in a book, devouring the latest novel or delving into a classic. Whether it’s the latest gadgets, films or books, there’s no review Audrey can’t tackle.
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