Media lauded for elections reportage

Harare Bureau

THE media played a crucial role in the recent harmonised elections by accurately disseminating information and promoting peace, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa has said.

Speaking at a media reception at the Liberation City Heritage Village in Harare last night, Minister Mutsvangwa said:
“As the media you have remained the doyens of effective information dissemination where your robust communication of the achievements of the Second Republic was second to none.

Your ability to inform and educate the citizenry on strides the Government was taking to improve their economic well-bring was hugely in fulfilment of your role as the media.

Not only were you able to adopt a hybrid communication strategy to publicise Government’s milestones achieved in the last five years but you also played a critical role in making the election period a peaceful one by your impartial reportage.”

Minister Mutsvangwa said media reports help to shape Government policy. The media, she added, can continue to promote peace in the post-election season.

“Your reports and criticism helped policy makers and those involved in the running of the polls to be alive to the views and thinking of the citizens, and in the process contributing to the smooth running of the elections. I want to encourage you to keep executing your role post-election season by encouraging peace among the citizens. Encourage the nation to put aside differences and shun all divisions. Zimbabwe is for us by us. You are a great asset to this nation and the Government takes pride in your conduct and hard work.”

The Minister said Government remains committed to ensuring that it promulgates laws that allow the media to operate freely.
“We are fully aware of the fact that your efforts will be fruitless if there are no regulations that protect you. So as a priority, we promise to continue ensuring your safety and freedom as well as protect the practice of journalism. Relations between the media and Government are currently at an all time best due to the willingness by both parties to engage.

“This is why we embarked together on the journey to reform our media laws and today you will agree with me that the media landscape has vastly changed for the better and that as journalists your relationship with Government has never been as harmonious as it has been in the last few years. We found each other and we continue working together for our country.

There has been immense growth of the media industry and notable de-polarisation as you are all aware.”
MIPBS deputy minister Mr Kindness Paradza and permanent secretary Mr Nick Mangwana attended the event, which was also graced by Zimpapers chief executive Mr Pikirayi Deketeke.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Mr Deketeke said the media is a powerful tool in maintaining peace and telling the positive narrative of Zimbabwe’s tourist attractions and economic development.