Online Reporter
Mashudu Netsianda, [email protected]
THE Government under the Second Republic is committed to implementing a raft of media reforms and promoting freedom of expression, and the professionalisation of the information ecosystem, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere has said
Speaking at the 2025 annual media stakeholders’ conference in Harare on Wednesday, Dr Muswere stressed that robust mechanisms must be put in place to operationalise these reforms, including the successful implementation of the Media Policy, to foster greater transparency and media vibrancy across Zimbabwe.
“The Second Republic, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, President Dr ED Mnangagwa, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to media reform, freedom of expression and the professionalisation of the information ecosystem,” said Dr Muswere.
He noted that, in pursuit of the Government’s commitment to leave no one and no place behind, the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ) recently issued a call for applications for 10 additional community radio licences in rural and marginalised areas, supplementing the 14 already operational. The 10 communities include Chivhu,
Uzumba-Maramba-Pfungwe, Gokwe-Nembudziya, Chivi, Marondera, Kanyemba, Makoni, Gutu, Dande and Sanyati.
“The Second Republic is equally committed to enhancing professionalism in the media sector. We are expanding media training programmes and revising curricula to align with the evolving needs of our society and the digital age,” said Dr Muswere.
“Through strategic partnerships with institutions of higher learning and international organisations, we are equipping journalists with the competencies required to operate ethically, innovatively and professionally in a dynamic information environment.”
The minister highlighted that President Mnangagwa has made it clear that the media is not a peripheral sector.
“It is central to our democratic consolidation, national cohesion and socio-economic transformation. As we advance towards the realisation of Vision 2030, the media sector must be recognised as a strategic pillar in achieving an upper-middle-income economy,” he said.
Dr Muswere added that the Government has prioritised access to information, digital transformation and media pluralism as key enablers of inclusive and sustainable development.
“Through targeted reforms and investments, we are building a vibrant media ecosystem that supports economic growth, national cohesion, and citizen empowerment,” he said.
Complementing the Media Policy framework is the National Artificial Intelligence Policy, which positions Zimbabwe as a forward-looking nation ready to embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
“This forward-thinking initiative provides strategic guidance on the ethical and innovative use of AI in media production, content moderation and digital engagement, ensuring that technological advancement is pursued responsibly and inclusively,” said Dr Muswere.
“Equally important is the role of the media in telling the Zimbabwean story. We must move beyond narratives of deficit and despair and instead amplify stories of innovation, resilience and national pride.”
The minister added that the media must be empowered to document Zimbabwe’s journey, celebrate the country’s successes and reflect the aspirations of citizens.
Dr Muswere said the Media and Information Literacy policy is currently being drafted to empower citizens to distinguish between truth and disinformation or misinformation.
The minister called on Government agencies, broadcasters, content creators, civil society, and the public to actively participate in bringing this policy to life.
“Our collective dedication will transform Zimbabwe’s media sector into a model of inclusivity, transparency and credible storytelling,” he said.
Dr Muswere also commended the Media Alliance of Zimbabwe (MAZ) for partnering with the Government.
“As the Second Republic advances its reform agenda, such partnerships are indispensable to the success of our national vision,” he said.
