admin
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
The Zimbabwean media industry has witnessed remarkable improvement over the past five years, particularly in the area of media freedom, Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) chairperson, Professor Ruby Magosvongwe has said.
Addressing journalists at the World Press Freedom Day commemorations held today in Harare, Prof Magosvongwe said the fundamental reforms that have taken place in the media sector are a feather on the hat of the Second Republic.
The event was organised by the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ).
“The past five years have seen the much-maligned AIPPA (Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act) being repealed replaced by more progressive legislation like the ZMC Act and FOI (Freedom of Information) Act,” she said.
“These reforms have certainly opened up the media space, allowing practitioners to express themselves freely, subject to their professional standards. We have also seen the licensing of several television and radio stations, both commercial and community-owned.
“One can safely say that the industry is experiencing remarkable growth. Nonetheless, a lot still needs to be done to underpin this progress and this includes addressing sustainability challenges currently bedevilling the industry.”
ZUJ secretary-general, Mr Perfect Hlongwane said all stakeholders need to uphold the rights of journalists.
“We are cognizant of the strides made so far in reforming the sector,” he said.
“Our laws must be friendly and allow media practitioners to work without any form of curtailment. As ZUJ, we implore everyone to recognise the importance of a diverse and independent media in fostering a healthy democracy and promoting social progress.”
Online Reporter