Online Reporter
Luthando Mapepa
Correspondent
GOVERNMENT will continue to foster a supportive media environment under by repealing outdated statutes and enacting new laws that promote access to information, media plurality and diversity, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda announced this afternoon.
Speaking at the World Radio Day celebrations at Tongogara Refugee Settlement, in Chipinge, Minister Soda, who officially commissioned Tongogara FM, outlined a three‑year plan to expand community broadcasting.
He revealed that 22 community radio licences have been issued, with 14 stations already on air, a move he said “will bring reliable news and development programming to rural Zimbabwe”.
Minister Soda said Government, under the astute leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, is committed to creating a media landscape that empowers every citizen, especially those in remote areas and ensure the broadcasting sector thrives on the road to Vision 2030.
Minister Soda’s remarks reinforce the Government’s broader agenda to modernise the media sector, enhance transparency and support the country’s long‑term development goals.
Minister Soda also urged media practitioners to embrace Artificial Intelligence.
Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Dr Angeline Gata, who is also the legislator for Mutema‑Musikavanhu Constituency, said that media diversity and plurality, spearheaded by the Second Republic, aligns with her ministry’s initiative to partner with radio stations for remote learning in order to promote education for everyone.
Honourable Gata said radio remains one of the most accessible mediums for delivering educational content, especially in remote areas, and that Tongogara FM will help her ministry reach learners in the remote area, ensuring that no child is left behind.
Commissioner for Refugees in Zimbabwe, Mr Totamirepi Tirivavi said the initiative is a big win for refugees and the local community.
He added that the radio station is not only for refugees but also serves the host community.
The 2026 theme, “Radio and Artificial Intelligence: AI is a tool, not a voice,” serves as a powerful reminder that, while technology is transforming how news is gathered and shared, it must remain guided by human ethics, judgment and responsibility.
