dyton mupawaenda
Blessings Chidakwa
Herald Reporter
The Zimbabwe Media Policy that has been officially launched by President Mnangagwa in Harare this morning is a transformative step in aligning media development with constitutional mandates and Vision 2030.
Speaking during the launch at State House, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere said the policy directly responds to Sections 61 and 62 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, which enshrines freedom of expression and media freedom.
“The launch of the Zimbabwe Media Policy is in fulfilment of the Constitution,” he said.
“It is a reflection of the deliberate leadership of His Excellency, President Dr E.D. Mnangagwa, whose guidance continues to shape practical and impactful policy implementation under the Second Republic.”
Dr Muswere said the policy is a product of extensive stakeholder engagement, embracing contributions from media professionals, academia, civil society, and the public sector.
He emphasised that the objectives of the policy are multifaceted, ranging from human capital development in the media, to heritage-based broadcasting and the full utilisation of all 16 constitutionally recognised languages in content production.
“This is a media blueprint that touches on ethics, sustainability, governance, and local content development. It also addresses the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting, data collection, and the role of the Zimbabwe Media Commission as a constitutional Chapter 12 institution,” he said.
“The threats of the digital age are real, and this policy provides a framework for protecting Zimbabwe’s image, data, and values while ensuring every citizen is part of the journey towards an informed and empowered society,” he said.
Framing the media as both a developmental tool and a national asset, Dr Muswere asserted that the sector’s strength directly supports the country’s trajectory towards attaining upper-middle-income status by 2030.
“This policy embodies our shared responsibility to defend, advance and project a positive national image. Each Zimbabwean has a role to play in this process.”
The launch marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s policy landscape, reinforcing Government’s commitment to media freedom while simultaneously seeking to foster professionalism, accountability, and national cohesion in the sector.
Online Reporter