Online Reporter
Zimpapers Reporter
THE Second Republic, under President Mnangagwa, has recorded landmark achievements in press freedom, which “demonstrate a Government that trusts its people and recognises that an informed citizenry is essential to democracy”, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda has said.
The milestones include enactment of the progressive Freedom of Information Act, operationalisation of the independent Zimbabwe Media Commission, the Zimbabwe Media Policy, over 40 newly licensed radio stations including community broadcasters, as well as a transparent access to information regime.
In a statement to mark World Press Freedom Day, Dr Soda said the Government has since embarked on a national programme to promote media literacy aimed at equipping citizens with the critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate information, distinguish credible sources from false ones and identify manipulated content such as deepfakes.
On May 3 every year, the world celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom.
This year’s commemorations are running under the theme “Press freedom as a bridge, not a barrier — Uniting Zimbabwe through responsible journalism”.
“Media literacy is important because press freedom alone is not enough. A free press must be matched by a discerning public. Without media literacy, even the most ethical journalism can be undermined by a citizenry unable to tell fact from fiction,” he said.
“This programme will target schools, community centres and digital platforms, ensuring that all Zimbabweans become active, informed and responsible consumers of media. We call upon educators, civil society and media houses to partner with Government in rolling out this vital initiative. An empowered citizen is the best defence against disinformation.”
Dr Soda said press freedom, however, does not mean freedom to lie, manipulate or destroy.
He further said every journalist, editor, media house and citizen sharing content online is called upon to uphold the highest ethical standards.
“Press freedom does not mean freedom to lie, to manipulate or to destroy. Every journalist, editor, media house and citizen sharing content online is called upon to uphold the highest ethical standards: verify before sharing, correct mistakes, reject sensationalism and never become a vehicle for disinformation,” he said.
The programme to promote media literacy comes after a rise in fake news, disinformation, deepfakes — hyper-realistic manipulated content generated by artificial intelligence — posing a grave threat to social cohesion, national security and individual dignity.
Dr Soda also said press freedom must not become an excuse to import and propagate ideas alien to Zimbabwean values, traditions and way of life.
“Our rich cultural practices, respect for elders, communal spirit, Ubuntu, languages and heritage deserve to be honoured,” added Dr Soda.
“The media has a sacred duty to be a custodian of our culture, telling our stories and celebrating our heroes, while critiquing from a place of love for the nation.”
It is time, he added, to move beyond the old habits of polarisation.
“Press freedom should not be a weapon to divide, but a bridge to connect communities, amplify diverse voices and build a shared national story,” he said.
“Let this freedom be used to celebrate what unites us, even as we respectfully debate our differences.”
