Online Reporter
Wendy Nyakurerwa-Matinde
Live Editor
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere has called for an urgent need for a strategic overhaul in light of the ongoing digital transformation within Zimpapers, the country’s biggest media group.
Delivering his keynote address at the Zimpapers Strategy Session in Harare this morning, Dr Jenfan Muswere commended the digital transformation taking place at the media house.
Recognising the potential for growth and profitability by mid-2026, Dr Muswere advocated for the re-deployment of personnel to optimise resources and enhance revenue streams, particularly focusing on the struggling Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN).
Dr Muswere noted that Zimpapers has the right and experienced human resources personnel, adding that as the organisation enters the digital era, there is need for re-deployment of people to the right areas.
“We just have to deploy investment where there is a return on investment. By July 2026, Zimpapers must be operating profitably, and it starts now. Where there are gaps, send people for training,” said the Minister.
Dr Muswere noted that while the ZTN is making losses, there is huge potential in getting more revenue in Natprint, Zimpapers’ printing and packaging arm, as there is a secure market for their products.
“We have invested more than US$13million at ZTN, and we need a return on investment from that project. It is unbelievable that US$13million was sunk into ZTN when the work done at ZBC Montrose Studios did not cost US$1million. So a forensic audit will reveal how that money was spent at ZTN and where there were leakages.
“There is need to relaunch ZTN. There is no need to downsize ZTN, but the redeployment of human resources to other areas becomes crucial,” said Dr Muswere.
“Why not relook at business units that are doing well and redeploy workers from ZTN. The cost structure is too heavy. Relook at it, but don’t fire anyone. People need their jobs, so just redeploy people to the right areas.
“Every contribution should help us emerge stronger. Now we need a turn-around strategy for Zimpapers. This strategy should energise our thoughts.
“The evolution from print to other areas was good. But for this to work, the organisation’s leadership has to be firm and avoid nursing feelings,” said the Minister.
