THE government has ordered broadcasters to stop airing advertisements for unverified healing services and products in a major crackdown on unlicensed medical practitioners and rogue spiritual headers.
The Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (Baz) announced that all health-related advertisements should obtain approval from the Health and Child Care ministry, with stiff penalties awaiting those who violate the regulations.
Baz acting chief executive officer Matthias Chakanyuka expressed concern over a surge in advertisements flighted by individuals falsely claiming healing powers.
“We have noted with grave concern the resurgence of unauthorised advertisements relating to health, particularly those by self-proclaimed traditional healers, herbalists and faith healers who are making claims they cannot substantiate,” he said.
He added that investigations revealed that many of the advertisements were being broadcast without oversight of health authorities, allowing false prophets and unqualified practitioners to deceive the vulnerable public.
“These individuals are making bold, unverified claims about their ability to cure diseases, yet investigations show that many of these claims are completely false.”
Authorities expressed alarm over reports that some citizens suffered serious harm after trusting unlicensed practitioners.
“Reports further suggest that some consumers have suffered adverse effects and other forms of prejudice after using products or services from these unregulated sources,” Chakanyuka said.
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“No advertisement relating to any medicine — whether traditional, herbal or conventional — as well as spiritual or faith-based healing, may be aired without proof of approval by the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
“This requirement applies equally to all categories and is not intended to discriminate, but to ensure that no charlatan is allowed to deceive the public.”
He warned that broadcasters who continue to provide a platform to unlicensed individuals will face the full force of the law.
“Failure to comply with these regulations constitutes a serious breach of the law and will result in the full application of statutory penalties.”
Chakanyuka said Baz directed all radio and television stations to immediately verify that advertisements promoting healing services or products have obtained the necessary approval from health authorities.
