Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
GOVERNMENT has commended Zimbabwe’s media sector for its role in advancing national development, urging content creators to champion unity, patriotism and accurate reporting as the country progresses towards its Vision 2030 goals.
The call was made by Presidential Investment Advisor, Dr Paul Tungwarara, at the Legacy Empowerment Awards 2025 in Harare yesterday where he also said constructive storytelling was instrumental in shaping the nation’s future.
“We are here to celebrate a spirit. A spirit of resilience, of creativity and of unwavering patriotism that is fuelling Zimbabwe’s journey towards Vision 2030,” Dr Tungwarara said.
“What is happening here today (yesterday) truly shows why His Excellency President Mnangagwa always says ‘Nyika inovakwa ne vene vayo (a country is built by its own people)’.”
Addressing the gathering, which honoured excellence in media, agriculture, arts, community leadership and youth innovation, Dr Tungwarara spoke directly to the media fraternity.
“Your role has never been more critical. You are not just reporters; you are the architects of our national narrative,” he said.
“In your hands, you hold the power to inspire a generation, to unite a people and to accelerate our development.”
Journalists, he said, must focus on stories that build confidence, attract investment and strengthen national identity.
Highlighting new infrastructure, agricultural innovations and entrepreneurial successes, Dr Tungwarara said the media does more than inform but it fosters collective pride and purpose.
Conversely, Dr Tungwarara warned against the dangers of destructive narratives.
“Misinformation, negativity and a constant focus on division do not just fill newspaper columns or social media feeds, they erode the very foundation of our progress,” he said. “They sow seeds of doubt and despair, discouraging the same innovation and investment we need to thrive.”
He singled out Legacy TV, led by Cde Pardon Mangwende, for praise, describing it as an essential platform for patriotic, development-driven content.
“It has carved out a vital space in our social media landscape, a space that is unapologetically Zimbabwean,” Dr Tungwarara said.
By aligning with the values of the Second Republic, he added, such initiatives play a crucial role in amplifying messages of unity and development, pointing to landmark projects like the Trabalas Interchange as fruits of this national vision.
“Let us continue to be champions of hard work. Let us practice resilience. Let us commit to correct reporting. Verify your facts, highlight truth over sensationalism and be a beacon of integrity in the digital space.”
Zimpapers Politics Hub senior reporter Joseph Madzimure scooped the Patriotic Journalist of the Year Award for advancing national development and articulating Zanu PF policies.
Among the winners was Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona who was awarded for being the most outstanding Minister, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera, Harare Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Senator Charles Tawengwa, Zanu PF Harare provincial chairman Cde Godwills Masimirembwa were awarded with the Lookout Masuku consistency award and Harare Provincial Political Commissar Cde Voyage Dambuza was awarded with the Robson Manyika Commissariate Excellency while Calton Kaziboni scooped the Legacy TV Excellency in Performance Award.
