Online Reporter
Good day, everyone.
Welcome to our live coverage of the International Day for Universal Access to Information celebrations taking place in Selous.
This important day highlights the significance of access to information as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone for democracy, transparency, and accountability.
Join us as we bring you live updates and insights from participants engaged in discussions about the importance of information accessibility in fostering inclusive societies.
Let’s celebrate the power of information to empower individuals and communities, ensuring that everyone has the right to seek, receive, and impart information freely.
Our Mashonaland West Bureau Conrad Mupesa is in Selous and will cover the event.
Stay tuned for exciting developments throughout the day!
Selous Digital Centre commissioned
ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera has commissioned the Selous Digital Centre.
The centre seeks to promote digital literacy and internet access, as well as provide printing services.
WATCH ZIMPAPERS ACTING CEO WILLIAM CHIKOTO SPEAK
Zimpapers acting chief executive officer, Mr William Chikoto; Chief Technology Officer, Mr Godwin Mwerenga and acting editorial executive, Mr Elias Mambo were part of the people who witnessed the commissioning.
Minister Mavetera tours stands
Minister Mavetera has arrived at the Selous Country Club grounds where today’s IDUAI commemorations are being held.
This year’s commemodations are being held under the theme ‘Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age’.
She toured stands of organisations and parastatals in the information sector.
Zimpapers, ZBC executives in attendance
Zimpapers acting chief executive officer, Mr William Chikoto; Chief Technology Officer, Mr Godwin Mwerenga, acting editorial executive, Mr Elias Mambo and Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation chief executive officer, Mr Sugar Chagonda follow proceedings of
the IDUIA commemorations at Selous Country Club grounds.
Representatives of various organisations and parastatals in the information sector have pledged their support in ensuring access to information, a key component towards attaining Vision 2030.
Minister Muswere arrives for commemorations
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere has arrived at Selous Grounds to join the crowd for the IDUAI commemorations that are underway.
Mash West welcomes those in attendance
In her speech read by Deputy Director Human Resources in her office, Mr Sunny Seremani, Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Marian Chombo welcomed those who have come to Selous for the commemorations.
She said ICT literacy is helping in transforming lives in the province.
Information saves lives: ZBC chief
ZBC CEO, Mr Sugar Chagonda said the State broadcaster is ready to relay information to communities across the country.
“Information saves lives and help build resilience,” he said.
Zimpapers spreads its wings in digital era
Zimpapers acting Ceo, Mr William Chikoto said access to information is key to the company’s operations.
“As Zimpapers, we have various platforms in Mashonaland West. We have a radio station called Platinum FM and it now covers the whole province.
“With the new digital centre commisioned today, it is an opportunity for you to access our platforms by visiting our website,” he said.
Potraz pledges access to information for all
Mr Alfred Marisa, deputy director general for POTRAZ said the parastatal is working towards improving infrastructure to ensure that information is accessed regardless of location.
“This helps to ensure that everyone contributes to the country’s development.”
Huge strides in media industry: Dr Muswere
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Serives Minister, Dr Jenfana Muswere has taken to the podium to give his remarks.
Dr Muswere said in tandem with Vision 2030, the Government is promoting the utilisation of various infrastructure for communication and media.
He said his ministry and the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services are streamlining services to ensure access to information.
“Zimbabwe has introduced Zimdigital Phase 2, which is expected to end in two years.
“This will see the digitisation of the broacdacsting and transimission ecosystem,” said Dr Muswere.
He said the Zimpapers Group has embarked on a digitalisation drive and awaits commissioning by President Mnangagwa.
“Under President Mnangagwa, we have seen the commissioning of 14 radio stations countrywide.
‘Digitalisation will fast-track attainment of Vision 2030’
Minister Mavetera is now addressing the gathering.
She said a whole-of-society and Government approach is required for the country to achieve digital and information inclusion and accessibility.
“All Zimbabweans must have internet access and we have made a lot of progress in rural connectivity in line with leaving no one and place behind. Vision 2030 can only be achieved if we digitise.
“President Mnangagwa has been spearheading this and has helped us provide laptops and WiFi services to schools. This programme is being implemented across the country to ensure that we bridge the digital divide.
“Digital centres are also a way of bridging ICT gaps. We are introducing these centres across the country,” said Minister Mavetera.
She went on to highlight the high cost of data, which is making it difficult for some people to access the internet.
“We have engaged the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development so that our players’ tariffs and licences are reduced.
“The President is looking into the issue of data charges with a view to reducing the prices to meet the standards of the people.
