WhatsApp group admins in Zimbabwe now need a licence to operate

The directive, announced by Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Postal, and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, applies to WhatsApp groups operating within the country.

Under the new rules, WhatsApp group administrators must pay a licencing fee that varies based on the type and nature of the group. Fees start at $50 and can go as high as $2,500. According to Minister Mavetera, this initiative aligns with Zimbabwe's Data Protection Act (DPA), which defines personal information as any data that could directly or indirectly identify an individual.

“The time is ticking for organisations that collect first-party data, as you are required by law to have a data protection licence and the licence fees range from $50 to $2,500,” Mavetera stated.

The regulation extends beyond businesses to include community organisations, churches, and other entities that administer WhatsApp groups and collect members' phone numbers. These groups are now required to appoint a certified Data Protection Officer (DPO) responsible for ensuring compliance with data protection laws.

“Even churches who collect personal data ought to have such a licence and appoint a data protection officer (DPO). WhatsApp group admins are not spared either. If your groups are meant for business, you should also obtain a licence,” added Mavetera.

WhatsApp is a widely used platform in Zimbabwe, accounting for nearly 50% of all internet traffic and is used by approximately 5 million people—37% of the country's population. During the COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation about the virus circulated rapidly on WhatsApp, highlighting the platform's influence in Zimbabwe.

Mavetera emphasised that those who fail to comply with these licensing and data protection requirements will face penalties.