The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) has closed down four radio stations for interfering with aircraft communication and navigation systems. 

This follows a comprehensive assessment conducted in conjunction with the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA).

In a statement, the ZICTA indicated that this action is an appropriate response given the circumstances. While this incident may be the first occurrence of its kind, it presents a technical issue that can be resolved.

Sometimes radio stations produce signals or harmonics that interfere with air-to-ground communication.

A check using spectrum analysers revealed that the four radio stations located in the northern part of the country were emitting frequencies outside of their designated bands.

The stations neglected to use filters for the purpose of suppressing unwanted emissions, which contributed to the interference with air-to-ground communication and necessitated the temporary closure to address these issues.

Furthermore, transmission power must always be managed so it remains within licensed limits.

However, Zambia's Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Media, Tabo Kawana, said the closure is temporary to rectify the problem.

As of January 2026, Zambia's broadcasting landscape has expanded to 263 licensed stations, which include 202 radio stations and 61 television stations. 

These stations operate across various categories, including commercial, community, and public service, with a significant presence of community radio stations in rural areas.