Staff Reporter
In a bold move to reclaim Zimbabwe’s narrative, the Government is spearheading a comprehensive overhaul of the media sector, prioritising informative journalism, inclusive broadcasting, and access to information.
In his address during the State of Nation Address (SONA) yesterday, President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced the modernisation of the broadcasting sector and the promotion of access to information, a move aimed at increasing the reach of media services, particularly in rural areas.
“Government is supporting the transformation of the media landscape through bold measures to preserve our culture and nurture a positive country image... Montrose Television Studios in Bulawayo are being comprehensively modernised. Similarly, community radio stations such as Khulumani FM and Central FM, as well as Mbembesi and Ntepe Manama, in Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South, respectively, together with the Madziva FM in Mashonaland Central Province, are undergoing upgrades to increase the reach of broadcasting services,” said President Mnangagwa.
Midlands-based media practitioner, name withheld for personal reasons, applauded efforts being put in place by the Government to create better conditions for the fraternity.
“I applaud President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s address today (yesterday) because it highlighted the need for media transformation and reforms in Zimbabwe. He emphasised the importance of passing bills such as the Media Practitioners Bill, which has been in the works since 2022. This bill will aim to promote co-regulation of the media industry, allowing for self-regulation while maintaining statutory oversight.
“There is also an urgent need to improve journalists’ welfare, particularly their salaries, which are currently inadequate. This is crucial, as the media industry plays a vital role in nation-building, especially for community-based media organizations,” said the Midlands-based media expert.
By prioritising the media industry, the Government aims to foster a more informed and engaged citizenry, ultimately contributing to Zimbabwe’s progress.
The Government has been emphasising the need for media reform, including the amendment of the Broadcasting Services Act (BSA), which the President highlighted as critically important as well as finalising and debating new bills, such as the Cybersecurity and Cybercrimes Bill, the Data Protection Bill, and the Electronic Transactions and Electronic Commerce Bill.
These developments demonstrate Government’s continued commitment to promote media freedom, access to information, and cultural preservation in Zimbabwe.
