Mozambique digital, telecom, and media regulatory reforms

Mozambique is undertaking regulatory reforms to modernize its digital and telecommunications sectors. Under Decree No. 36/2026, the government implemented new telecommunications and scarce resources licensing regulations, replacing the 2017 system with unified, class-based licenses. Parallel to these infrastructure reforms, the government is reviewing labor laws to address the digital economy, specifically discussing social protections for platform workers through the Ministry of Labour, Gender and Social Action and the National Institute of Information and Communication Technologies (INTIC).

Expanding its regulatory scope, Mozambique has introduced a new legal framework for the media sector via Law No. 19/2026 and Law No. 20/2026, replacing regulations dating back to the early 1990s. These laws formally bring digital and internet-only publications under the sector’s legal regime and cap foreign capital participation in media companies at 35%.

The new media legislation includes press freedom protections, such as editorial independence and the right to source confidentiality, while establishing a formal Press Card. Regarding broadcasting, radio and television operators—including digital platforms—must now ensure a minimum of 80% locally produced content. The law also introduces a “family hour” between 06:00 and 20:00 to prohibit content unsuitable for minors and bans political parties, unions, and employer associations from conducting broadcasting activities.