Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ)

The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) was established in terms of the Postal and Telecommunications Act [Chapter 12:05].

Section 4 of the Postal and Telecommunications Act [Chapter 12:05] defines the Functions and Powers of the Authority as follows:

(1) Subject to this Act, the functions of the Authority shall be-

(a) To ensure the provision of the sufficient domestic and international telecommunication and postal services throughout Zimbabwe on such terms and conditions as the Authority may see fit.
(b) Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (a), to ensure that any person by whom any telecommunications or postal services falls to be provide is able to provide these services at rates consistent with the provision of an efficient and continuous service and the necessity of maintaining independent financial viability;
(c) To promote the development of postal and telecommunication systems and services in accordance with practicable recognised international standards and public demand;
(d) To exercise licensing and regulatory functions in respect of postal and telecommunication systems and services in Zimbabwe, including the establishment of standards and codes relating to equipment attached to telecommunication systems;
(e) To exercise licensing and regulatory functions in respect of the allocation and use of satellite orbits and the radio frequency spectrum in Zimbabwe for all purposes, including the establishment of standards and codes relating to any matter in connection therewith;
( f ) To secure that reasonable demands for postal and telecommunication services are satisfied
( g ) To promote the interests of consumers, purchasers and other users, in respect of the quality and variety of postal and telecommunications services provided and telecommunication apparatus supplied.
( h ) To maintain and promote effective competition between persons engaged in the provision of postal and telecommunications services and any activities connected therewith;
( i ) To monitor tariffs charged by cellular telecommunication, postal and telecommunication licensees with a view to eliminating unfair business practices among such licensees;
( j ) To promote and encourage the expansion of postal and telecommunication services;
( k ) To further the advancement of technology relating to postal and telecommunication systems and services;
( l ) To represent Zimbabwe internationally in matters relating to postal and telecommunication services;
( m ) To establish, approve or control a national telephone numbering plan for the purpose of ensuring that telephone numbers are allocated in an efficient and non-discriminatory manner;
( n ) To promote and control the provision of international transit services by persons providing telecommunication services in Zimbabwe;
( o ) To advise the Minister on all matters relating to postal and telecommunication systems and services.

(2) Subject to this Act, for the better exercise of its functions the Authority shall have the power to do or cause to be done, either by itself or through its agents, all or any of the things specified in the Second Schedule, either absolutely or conditionally and either solely or jointly with others.

(3) Subject to this Act, the Authority shall not, in the lawful exercise of its functions under this Act, be subject to the direction or control of any person or Authority.