Online Reporter
Sunday Mail Reporter
The media should be a driver of national aspirations as the country journeys towards an empowered, modern, highly industrial and knowledge-driven economy within the next five years, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere has said.
Speaking at this year’s Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) Anti‑Corruption Media Awards ceremony in the capital on Friday night, Dr Muswere, who was the guest of honour, said the media should focus on developmental journalism, which is essential for nation-building.
This year’s awards ran under the theme “Promoting Integrity through the Media”.
“This award‑giving ceremony marks an important milestone as we fight corruption, a cancer that affects macroeconomic growth, Vision 2030 and our success as a nation,” he said.
“To achieve an upper middle‑income society by 2030, we must work together as a team. Journalism informs, educates and raises awareness on key strategic issues, whether negative or positive. Ultimately, journalism should be a driver of Vision 2030.”
Responsible journalism, he added, is premised on identifying, investigating and verifying facts before publication.
“I implore you to also dwell more on developmental journalism and refrain from filling spaces with political and sleazy stories which do not speak to or contribute to our national vision. A narrative of balanced accountability and recognised progress is essential for nation-building,” he said.
“The Second Republic stands with you in this endeavour. We are committed to creating an environment where you can operate freely, responsibly and without fear, but in accordance with the law. “
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting the media fraternity.
ZACC chairperson Mr Michael Reza said the awards were the commission’s way “of appreciating members of the Fourth Estate for continuously and tirelessly responding to the call of duty in service to the nation”.
“The successful execution of this mandate hinges on public will and endorsement,” said Mr Reza. “For the public to buy into the anti-corruption philosophy, the media has an important role in shaping narratives and correcting perceptions.”
He also praised the media’s role in the anti‑corruption fight.
At the ceremony, Zimpapers journalists secured two of the four top awards, which recognised their exceptional investigative work in fighting against corruption
Zimpapers’ correspondent Trust Freddy won the Best Reporter on Prevention and Awareness award, while another Zimpapers reporter, Veronica Gwaze, won the Anti‑Corruption Journalist of the Year award.
After receiving his award, Freddy thanked the Zimpapers team.
“This award is a testament to our collective efforts in promoting transparency and accountability,” he said.
“I believe these are the first fruits of our integrated newsroom, especially following the creation of the new Check Point Desk, which is dedicated primarily to investigations.”
He dedicated the award to all those who continue to speak out against corruption and work tirelessly to create a better future for communities.
