The long-proposed dedicated Southern African Development Community (SADC) television channel is now at an advanced stage of being launched.

SADC member states have for a long time been exploring regional broadcasting platforms, including a possible SADC television channel and radio network to enhance visibility and cohesion.

The Permanent Secretary in Zimbabwe's Ministry of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Nick Mangwana, made this hint on the sidelines of the just-ended SADC cluster meeting of ministers responsible for transport, ICT, information and meteorology in Bulawayo.

The cluster meeting forms part of ongoing efforts by SADC member states to align regional policies with continental development frameworks, including the African Union Agenda 2063.

Mangwana said the proposed dedicated SADC television channel would go a long way in serving as an income-generating mechanism for the region.

“We are discussing having an SADC channel. It is actually advanced now. That channel again will be hosting content from 16 member countries, and all the profits that will be coming from advertising on that channel will be shared around the model of how much content you have contributed.”

In addition, the Southern African Broadcasting Association sees the move that could redefine the regional media industry.

“Within this channel, we will be having each country telling their stories in their own languages. So nobody can feel left out. We want to encourage people, we want to educate people and we want to entertain people in the same way but in the ways that we grew up, in the ways we know.”

The initiative further aims to foster greater regional integration, cultural exchange, and shared news coverage across member states.