Tuesday, October 13

Mashura Mnangagwa Signs Bill Making Every Driver Pay Mari Yekuterera Radio MuMotor

 

Zimbabwe's President Emmerson Mnangagwa has signed into law a contentious bill that requires all motorists to buy a radio licence before acquiring vehicle insurance.

There has been an outcry from some motorists as they will now have to pay $92 (£68) annually in order to listen to the radio in their vehicles.

The introduction of the measure is part of a plan to widen revenue sources for the state broadcaster but critics say the licence fee is too high, especially given the difficult economic situation. 

Leading opposition figure Nelson Chamisa said the new law was "too draconian, anti-citizens and outrightly heartless".

But the broadcaster is struggling to make people pay for their TV and radio licences. 

Critics have been calling for the scrapping of the fee, accusing ZBC of biased coverage in favour of the governing Zanu-PF.

The opposition has complained of unfair coverage by the broadcaster, especially during elections. ZBC has denied the accusation.

Under the new Broadcasting Services Amendment Act, all motorists must now pay the radio licence fee before they can renew their vehicle insurance or obtain a licence from the Zimbabwe National Road Authority (Zinara).

The changes, which were recently approved by parliament, pegs the fee at $23 per quarter, amounting to $92 per year.

However, ZBC can grant exemptions to those who qualify, including tourists visiting the country.

But the new amendment aims to eliminate loopholes and boost compliance with the requirement to have a licence. 

It prohibits all motor insurance companies from selling their products to motorists who do not hold a valid ZBC radio licence, unless they have a ZBC exemption certificate or the vehicle being insured does not have a radio receiver.

But the law has drawn sharp criticism from motorists and opposition groups, terming it a burden on taxpayers.

"Citizens are being pauperized left, right and centre, why does the citizenry of this country deserve so uncaring & heartless a leadership?" Chamisa posted on X. 

Another X user described the measure as an "unjust assault on motorists"

 

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Info News

Best Mortgage Refinance Companies for Homeowners With Equity

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Mortgage refinancing activity is rising again in 2026.

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Homeowners with strong equity positions are searching for ways to lower payments, reduce interest costs, or access cash for major expenses.

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But refinancing is not always automatically smart.

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The details matter.

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Why Homeowners Refinance

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People refinance for several reasons.

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These include:

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  • Lower interest rates
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  • Debt consolidation
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  • Home renovations
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  • Cash-out refinancing
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  • Shorter loan terms
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The right refinance strategy depends heavily on financial goals.

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What Lenders Evaluate

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Mortgage refinance companies usually review:

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  • Credit scores
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  • Home equity
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  • Debt-to-income ratios
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  • Employment history
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  • Property value
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Borrowers with strong equity often qualify for better rates.

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Risks of Refinancing

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Refinancing can create problems if borrowers ignore:

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  • Closing costs
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  • Extended loan terms
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  • Adjustable-rate risks
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  • Reduced home equity
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Lower monthly payments do not always mean lower long-term costs.

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Final Takeaway

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The best mortgage refinance companies help borrowers balance interest savings, long-term financial goals, and loan flexibility.

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A refinance should improve financial stability instead of creating new debt pressure.

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FAQ

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What credit score is needed to refinance?

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Requirements vary, though stronger credit usually improves rates.

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Is refinancing worth it in 2026?

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It depends on interest rates, equity levels, and long-term financial goals.

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Student Loan Refinance for Lower Payments

Student Loan Refinance: How to Lower Payments

Student loan refinance allows borrowers to replace existing student loans with a new loan. The goal is often to get a lower interest rate, lower monthly payment, or simpler repayment plan.

When you refinance student loans, lenders review credit score, income, debt, employment, and payment history.

Private vs Federal Loans

Refinancing private student loans can sometimes save money. However, refinancing federal loans into a private loan can remove federal protections such as income-driven repayment and forgiveness options.

Borrowers should understand what benefits they may lose before refinancing.

How to Compare Offers

Compare interest rates, repayment terms, fees, cosigner options, and monthly payments. A lower monthly payment may come with a longer term and more total interest.

Conclusion

Student loan refinance may help some borrowers save money, but it is important to compare lenders and understand the trade-offs.