ZICTA Shuts Down Four Radio Stations for Aviation Signal Interference

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Zambia’s communications regulator has ordered the immediate shutdown of four radio stations for interfering with critical aviation navigation and communication systems.

The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) announced the action on March 25, 2026, targeting four FM stations operating in Lusaka and the Copperbelt region. According to the regulator, the stations were transmitting on frequencies that overlapped with aviation safety systems, including Instrument Landing Systems used at major airports.

ZICTA stated that the affected stations had received multiple warnings but failed to correct the interference. The authority described the violations as “severe and persistent” and invoked its powers under the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act to shut them down with immediate effect. Full details of the shutdown were published by Zambia Monitor.

Aviation authorities welcomed the move, stressing that even minor interference with air traffic control frequencies can compromise flight safety, particularly during takeoff and landing in poor visibility conditions.

ZICTA has warned other broadcasters to urgently verify their transmission equipment and ensure they are operating strictly within their assigned frequencies. The regulator reminded station operators that causing harmful interference to safety-of-life services is a serious offence that can lead to heavy fines or criminal prosecution.

This latest crackdown reflects ZICTA’s intensified efforts to enforce spectrum discipline and protect essential national infrastructure. Similar actions have been taken in recent years to safeguard aviation, emergency communications, and national security networks.

The affected radio stations have gone silent, and it remains unclear when, or if, they will be allowed back on air after resolving the technical issues and obtaining proper clearance from ZICTA.

The development highlights the increasing tension between the rapid growth of broadcasting services and the need to protect critical aviation infrastructure as Zambia expands its digital and aviation sectors.