Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu, [email protected]
ZIMBABWE on Sunday joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Press Freedom Day, with Government urging the media to use press freedom as a tool to unite the nation and promote responsible journalism.
In a statement, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Zhemu Soda, said a free, independent and responsible press remains a cornerstone of a democratic society.
This year’s commemorations run under the theme “Press Freedom as a Bridge, Not a Barrier — Uniting Zimbabwe Through Responsible Journalism.”
Dr Soda said the Second Republic, under President Mnangagwa, has made notable strides in reforming the media landscape.
He cited the enactment of the Freedom of Information Act, the operationalisation of the Zimbabwe Media Commission, the crafting of the Zimbabwe Media Policy, and the licensing of more than 40 radio stations, including community broadcasters.
“These demonstrate a Government that trusts its people and recognises that an informed citizenry is essential to democracy,” said Dr Soda.
He challenged media practitioners to move away from polarisation, saying press freedom should serve as a bridge that connects communities and strengthens national unity.
“It is time to move beyond the old habits of polarisation. Press freedom should not be a weapon to divide, but a bridge to connect communities, amplify diverse voices and build a shared national story,” he said.
Dr Soda, however, warned against the dangers posed by fake news, disinformation and artificial intelligence-generated deepfakes, which he said threaten social cohesion and national security.
“With freedom comes responsibility. Press freedom does not mean freedom to lie, to manipulate, or to destroy,” he said.
He urged journalists, editors and citizens alike to uphold ethical standards by verifying information, correcting mistakes and rejecting sensationalism.
To address the growing threat of misinformation, Dr Soda said Government has embarked on a national media literacy programme aimed at equipping citizens with skills to critically assess information and identify false content.
The programme will target schools, community centres and digital platforms, with stakeholders such as educators, civil society and media houses expected to play a key role.
“An empowered citizen is the best defence against disinformation,” he said.
Dr Soda also called on the media to uphold and promote Zimbabwean cultural values, including respect for elders, Ubuntu and the country’s heritage.
“The media has a sacred duty to be a custodian of our culture, telling our stories and celebrating our heroes, while critiquing from a place of love for the nation,” he said.
He emphasised that the Ministry is not an adversary of the media, but a partner in national development.
“To every media worker — from veteran editor to rookie reporter, community radio volunteer to digital content creator — let us work together, critique constructively and never forget that we are building one nation, under one flag, with one future,” said Dr Soda.
He congratulated Zimbabwean media practitioners on the occasion, describing press freedom as precious and calling for its responsible use.
Press Freedom Day is a Day when we are supposed to hear from various Heads of Different Media about how free they are operating in the country , not for a politician who regulates their work to speak about how free they are working.