Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE yesterday joined other nations in commemorating World Press Freedom Day, with Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda imploring the media to promote national unity and responsible journalism.
World Press Freedom Day is a UN-proclaimed event commemorated annually on May 3, highlighting the fundamental principles of Press freedom, evaluating media independence globally and defending media against attacks.
It also honours journalists who died, promotes democracy and reminds governments to uphold the right to freedom of expression.
In a statement to mark the day yesterday, Dr Soda warned against misinformation and divisive reporting.
He said the country remained committed to upholding a free and independent Press, which he described as a cornerstone of democracy.
“Zimbabwe joins the global community in observing World Press Freedom Day,” he said.
“This day reminds us of the fundamental value of a free, independent and responsible Press as a cornerstone of a democratic society.”
Dr Soda outlined key milestones achieved under the Second Republic, including the enactment of the Freedom of Information Act, the operationalisation of the Zimbabwe Media Commission and the licencing of more than 40 radio stations.
“These milestones demonstrate a Government that trusts its people and recognises that an informed citizenry is essential to democracy,” he said.
Dr Soda challenged journalists and media houses to desist from polarised reporting and instead, contribute to nation-building through balanced and constructive journalism.
“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.
Minister Soda also raised concern over the proliferation of fake news, disinformation and emerging technologies such as deepfakes, which he said pose a threat to social cohesion and national security.
“Press freedom does not mean freedom to lie, to manipulate or to destroy. Every journalist, editor, media house and citizen sharing content online is called upon to uphold the highest ethical standards,” he said.
Government has rolled out a national media literacy programme aimed at equipping citizens with skills to identify false information and distinguish credible sources.
Minister Soda said the programme will target schools, community centres and digital platforms to ensure that citizens become informed and responsible consumers of media.
He also called for collective efforts among Government, media institutions, educators and civil society to ensure the success of the initiative.
The media play a key role in preserving the country’s cultural identity and journalism should celebrate national heritage, while providing constructive criticism, said Minister Soda.
“The media has a duty to be a custodian of our culture, telling our stories and celebrating our heroes, while offering criticism that builds the nation,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working with the media in advancing national development.
“We view the media as a partner in development, not an adversary. Together, we can build a united and informed nation,” he said.
World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993 following a 1991 recommendation from African journalists who adopted the “Windhoek Declaration” on media pluralism and independence.
