Media to drive SDG and Agenda 2063 thrust

Robin Muchetu, Senior Reporter

THE media has been identified as a vital cog in raising awareness around the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2063 and must be capacitated to educate communities to understand and appreciate their importance.

This was said by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service Labour and Social Welfare Mr Simon Masanga during a capacity building workshop for media practitioners in Masvingo this Thursday morning.

In a speech read on his behalf by the deputy director in the SDGs and Agenda 63 Unit Ms Sylocious Chaturuka, Mr Masanga said the workshop is a significant milestone in a collective journey toward sustainable development.

“The role of media in shaping public discourse and driving engagement around sustainable development issues cannot be overstated. By empowering media professionals with the tools and knowledge they need, we can ensure they effectively communicate and advocate for these transformative agendas, making a real impact in our communities. One of the key outcomes of media capacitation is the ability to raise awareness and understanding of the SDGs and Agenda 2063 among the public. Informed journalists are crucial for translating complex issues into relatable narratives, enabling citizens to grasp the significance of these goals and their implications for local contexts,” said Mr Masanga.

He said the capacitation workshop will deepen the media’s understanding of the Voluntary Local Review (VLR) process.

“The VLR ensures that our development efforts are grounded in the realities faced by our communities, making it crucial for achieving the SDGs and ensuring that no one is left behind. We will also explore effective communication strategies to help media professionals convey the significance of the SDGs and Agenda 2063 to diverse audiences. Understanding how to present complex information in an accessible manner is key to resonating with local communities,” he said.

Mr Masanga further said the ability to analyze and interpret reliable data will enable the media to provide insightful commentary that drives public awareness and accountability.

“By equipping ourselves with these essential skills, we can elevate the quality of our reporting and contribute meaningfully to the discourse on sustainable development,” he said.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration among media, government, and civil society saying building partnerships is vital for enhancing the capacity to report on these critical issues and fostering a more inclusive dialogue around sustainable development.