The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has with immediate effect granted all radio and television stations a cooling off window, to temporarily go off-air from midnight to 06:00 hours for the next three months.

IBA Board Chairperson Chikosola Chuulu announced that this is to help mitigate the operational costs caused by challenges of the current load management being faced.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, Mr Chuulu said that the board made the decision following extensive consultations with various stakeholders and after assessing the impact of load shedding on the operations of broadcasting stations.

He stated that the findings revealed that stations are struggling to maintain 24-hour operations, particularly due to increased costs of keeping their equipment running during periods of power outages.

“The action underscores the IBA’s commitment to supporting the sustainability of all licensed broadcasting stations operations, while alleviating the financial strain on broadcasting houses,” Mr Chuulu said.

The IBA Board Chairperson reiterated the Authority’s dedication to assisting the broadcasting industry in navigating the load shedding challenge, by ensuring that the public continues to access information even during difficult times.