The Zambian government has issued 10 licenses and 16 construction permits to radio and TV stations in the country, news reports said.

The chosen few are expected to switch to digital broadcasting before the 2013 deadline set by the Southern Africa Development Community.

According to Kennedy Sakeni, minister of Information and Broadcasting Services, the move is intended to enhance participation in the affairs of the country, as well as offer people an opportunity to air their views on issues of national interest.

He said the number of radio and television licenses issued is much higher than the previous government’s record of only two full radio licenses and eight construction permits issued between 2010 and Sept. 2011.