Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo
Herald Reporter
The Second Republic’s “ease of doing business” policy thrust applies to every sector, including the media, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda has highlighted.
In his address at the 15th anniversary celebrations of the Daily News in Harare today, Dr Soda said a review of regulatory fees and administrative costs is currently under serious consideration.
“We are drawing inspiration from other sectors of the economy where the Cabinet has since reduced taxes and costs downwards to enhance productivity.
“The media sector will not be left behind,” he said.
“We want to create a fiscal environment where a newspaper can reinvest in its journalists, upgrade its digital infrastructure, and expand its reach without being choked by the cost of regulation.
“We want you to spend more time innovating and less time worrying about administrative bottlenecks,” said Dr Soda
He said traditional media remains the gold standard for verified, ethical and credible information, adding that the “death of print” is not an inevitability, but a challenge to innovate.
“Under the guidance of the Second Republic and the wisdom of His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, my ministry will continue to work tirelessly to create a conducive environment for the operation of an unfettered press, which is the lifeblood of democracy.
“An unfettered press provides the checks and balances necessary for a healthy society,” said Minister Soda.
