ZIZ Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), commonly known as ZIZ, is the national public broadcaster of Saint Kitts and Nevis. It operates both radio and television services, with its television arm established in December 1972. ZIZ is a government-owned entity and a member of the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC).
Media assets
Radio: ZIZ Radio, Big Wave 96.7
Television: ZIZ TV
State Media Matrix Typology
Ownership and governance
ZIZ Broadcasting Corporation is wholly owned by the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis. As of December 2024, Gavin Belle, previously the Deputy Chairman of the ZIZ Board of Directors, was appointed as the new Managing Director. Belle brings experience in media and communications to the role.
Source of funding and budget
ZIZ Broadcasting Corporation primarily relies on government funding to cover its operating costs. Specific financial data for the 2025 fiscal year has not been publicly disclosed.
Editorial independence
ZIZ Broadcasting Corporation has faced criticism regarding its editorial independence. Since the Terrence Drew administration assumed office in August 2022, ZIZ, along with WINN FM, has notably avoided covering opposition party media events and press conferences, sparking accusations of bias and politicization. Critics argue that ZIZ’s actions amount to a regressive approach reminiscent of outdated political tactics from the 1970s and 80s.
The politicization of ZIZ’s editorial agenda reportedly deepened following the appointment of Saju Ngalla as general manager in June 2023. Critics allege that the broadcaster’s management operates under direct influence from the government, with some pointing specifically to Prime Minister Terrance Drew as a central source of editorial direction.
There is no domestic statute establishing the editorial independence of ZIZ Broadcasting Corporation, nor is there an independent assessment or oversight mechanism currently in place to evaluate its editorial practices.
June 2025