Staff Reporter
Government has reinforced the critical role that media, particularly community radio stations, play in driving national development, emphasizing the importance of local engagement and inclusivity in the broadcasting sector.
Speaking during last week’s National Assembly session, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, underscored the government's commitment to expanding media access and promoting diverse perspectives.
He highlighted community radio stations as pivotal platforms for fostering communication within local communities.
“Community radio stations are important, and it is crucial for communities to have stations that broadcast in local languages,” Dr. Muswere stated, stressing the necessity of inclusive media coverage.
He further clarified that there is no government policy restricting the scope of broadcasting in Zimbabwe, pointing out the value of community stations in promoting heritage and cultural preservation.
“Community radio stations help in terms of heritage-based coverage. They also play a significant role in promoting our local languages,” he added.
Dr. Muswere also addressed concerns over allegations of partisan reporting by national media outlets, assuring lawmakers that the government remains dedicated to ensuring balanced and diverse media representation.
He noted that the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) has made significant strides in this regard, having licensed over 10 community radio stations across the country to broaden media access.
In addition to community radio, the government has also licensed several private broadcasters, expanding the scope of media outlets available to the public.
This, Dr. Muswere emphasized, is part of a broader government initiative aimed at ensuring that a wide array of voices is represented in the media space, thereby enhancing public discourse and national cohesion.
Meanwhile, the promotion of community radio aligns with the government's devolution agenda, which seeks to empower local communities and strengthen the use of local languages in media.
As community radio stations begin to take root, stakeholders are optimistic that this development will contribute to a more informed and engaged citizenry, ultimately advancing Zimbabwe’s national development goals.
