Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
INFORMATION, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda has challenged Zimbabwe’s media industry to embrace innovation and rapidly evolving digital technologies or risk becoming irrelevant in an increasingly competitive global broadcasting landscape.
In a speech read on his behalf by the Ministry’s chief director, Mr Jonathan Gandari, during the opening of the Annual Broadcasters Conference in Bulawayo yesterday, Dr Soda said the broadcasting sector was at a defining moment that demanded bold transformation and a renewed focus on sustainability.
He said the conference was taking place at a critical time for the country’s broadcasting industry, with discussions expected to shape the future direction of the sector and challenge traditional approaches to media development.
The two-day conference, which began yesterday, is being hosted by the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) in partnership with the National University of Science and Technology (Nust) under the theme: “Shaping the Future of Broadcasting: Sustainability, Innovation and Collaborative Regulation in a Disrupted Media Landscape.”
“The sector is pursuing a new vision anchored on digital transformation, innovation and sustainability. We are witnessing the emergence of new media models designed to secure the future of broadcasting in an increasingly digital world,” said Dr Soda.
“Our mission is clear: to build a modern, efficient and inclusive broadcasting ecosystem that responds to the needs of the present while preparing for the future.”
Dr Soda said the Government’s transformation agenda seeks to modernise content production, distribution and consumption through the adoption of emerging technologies.
“We must urgently integrate digital technologies into our national development agenda. Broadcasting is no longer simply a platform for information dissemination; it has become a catalyst for economic growth, innovation and social development,” he said.
Dr Soda said broadcasters now operate in an environment characterised by intense competition from digital platforms and changing audience preferences, making innovation and adaptability essential for survival.
He said the future of broadcasting would increasingly be shaped by artificial intelligence, cloud computing, data-driven content creation and advanced digital platforms.
“These innovations present both opportunities and challenges, requiring broadcasters, policymakers and academic institutions to work together to develop the necessary skills and regulatory frameworks,” he said.
The minister said investment in human capital would be critical if Zimbabwe is to fully benefit from technological advancements within the broadcasting sector.
He also called for efforts to unlock the full economic potential of local content creators, innovators and broadcasters, saying a vibrant broadcasting industry could attract investment, strengthen cultural identity and position Zimbabwe as a competitive player in the global digital economy.
Dr Soda stressed the importance of collaboration among Government, industry, academia and innovation hubs in building a resilient and technologically advanced broadcasting sector.
“As we move forward, collaboration between Government, industry, academia and innovation hubs will be critical. Together, we can build a broadcasting sector that is resilient, technologically advanced and capable of contributing meaningfully to national development,” he said.
“The future belongs to those who embrace innovation, invest in knowledge and build with purpose. Let us commit ourselves to shaping a broadcasting industry that is not only modern and competitive, but also inclusive, sustainable and responsive to the aspirations of our people.”
The conference, which ends today, has brought together broadcasters, policymakers, academics, regulators and technology experts to discuss emerging trends and challenges affecting the industry.
Delegates are expected to deliberate on issues including digital transformation, sustainability, content development, collaborative regulation, technological innovation and the future of broadcasting in an increasingly disrupted media environment.
