Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke
Herald Correspondent
GOVERNMENT remains committed to upholding Press freedom, media diversity and freedom of expression as key pillars of democracy and national development, Acting Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu has said.
Speaking during the belated World Press Freedom Day commemorations at Herald House in Harare this afternoon, Minister Ndlovu said Zimbabwe had made significant strides in promoting media freedoms through legislative and policy reforms.
“Zimbabwe remains fully committed to upholding media freedom, media diversity and freedom of expression as essential pillars of democracy and national development,” he said.
Minister Ndlovu said milestones achieved by Government included the enactment of the Freedom of Information Act, the operationalisation of the Zimbabwe Media Commission and the licensing of more than 40 radio stations across the country.
“These milestones demonstrate Government’s confidence in the people of Zimbabwe and our firm belief that an informed citizen is indispensable to a democratic society,” he said.
Minister Ndlovu warned against the dangers posed by misinformation, disinformation and emerging digital technologies.
“The rise of misinformation, disinformation, fake news, online abuse and dangerous technologies such as deepfakes presents serious threats not only to journalism but also to social cohesion, peace and national security,” he said.
“Press freedom must never be mistaken for freedom to spread falsehoods, manipulate public opinion or sow division.”
Minister Ndlovu urged journalists and digital content creators to uphold ethical standards and use the media as a tool for national unity and development.
“The media must be a force for unity, peace and national development,” he said.
