Zimbabwe’s Media Reforms: A Milestone on the Road to Vision 2030
By Tinashe Mukori
Zimbabwe turned a decisive page in its history in November 2017 when long-serving leader Robert Mugabe resigned. His successor, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, pledged a new era of democratic governance, vowing to liberalize the airwaves, expand democratic space, and repeal restrictive media laws.
This commitment underscored the fundamental role of media reforms in national development. In an era where information flows seamlessly across borders, a free, independent, and diverse media landscape is indispensable for democracy, economic growth, social cohesion, and national security. The Second Republic’s reforms reflect a broader vision of modernizing Zimbabwe’s media sector and aligning it with global best practices.
Media Reforms as a Pillar of National Development
Strengthening democracy and governance
A free press is the bedrock of democracy, holding power to account and ensuring transparency in governance. Media reforms amplify the voices of citizens, particularly marginalized communities, and create an informed electorate capable of engaging meaningfully in national discourse.
Fostering economic growth
A liberalized media environment attracts investment by fostering transparency and accountability, key considerations for both local and foreign investors. Moreover, a dynamic media sector can drive entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation.
Enhancing social cohesion
A pluralistic media landscape promotes cultural diversity, preserves national heritage, and fosters cross-cultural understanding. Ensuring access to media for all communities strengthens national unity and social inclusion.
Bolstering national security
In an age of digital misinformation, a well-regulated but free press plays a crucial role in countering fake news and disinformation. Critical thinking and media literacy, fostered through an independent press, enhance national security by enabling citizens to discern fact from propaganda.
Promoting transparency and accountability
An open media environment serves as a watchdog, exposing corruption and governance failures while encouraging public debate on national issues. This, in turn, builds public trust in institutions and strengthens democratic governance.
Legislative milestones in media reform
Zimbabwe’s media landscape has undergone significant transformation since the repeal of the restrictive Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA) in 2019. The legislative overhaul introduced new frameworks that promote transparency, accountability, and professionalism in the media industry. These include:
Freedom of Information Act (July 2020) – guarantees the constitutional right to freedom of expression, media freedom, and access to public information.
Zimbabwe Media Commission Act (April 2021) – establishes a regulatory framework for the media sector, ensuring ethical standards while safeguarding press freedoms.
Cybersecurity and Data Protection Act (2021) – provides mechanisms to protect personal data while addressing cyber-related threats.
Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill – aims to enhance private and community ownership of broadcasting services, including increased foreign investment.
Media Practitioners’ Bill – proposes the establishment of the Zimbabwe Media Practitioners Council, which will oversee professional conduct and co-regulation within the media industry.
These reforms signal Zimbabwe’s commitment to liberalizing its media sector while ensuring that professional and ethical standards are upheld.
Expanding media access and diversification
Under the Second Republic, access to media has significantly expanded, with notable achievements in licensing and diversification:
14 community radio stations licensed, nearly half of them in Matabeleland.
7 campus radio stations introduced, including at NUST, Lupane State University, and Harare Polytechnic’s School of Journalism.
6 new commercial television stations licensed:
▪3K TV (Jester Media Services)
▪ZTN (Zimbabwe Newspapers)
▪NRTV (Rusununguko Media)
▪Kumba TV (Acacia Media Group)
▪Ke Yona TV (Fairtalk Communications)
▪Channel D (Channel Dzimbahwe)
The liberalization of the airwaves has paved the way for broader media representation, giving communities a platform to share their narratives and perspectives.
Transparency and government communication
A hallmark of the New Dispensation has been its commitment to open governance. The introduction of Post-Cabinet Press Briefings has enhanced transparency, ensuring that critical government decisions are communicated to the public in real time.
Additionally, government ministries are now required to engage interactively on social media, making official information more accessible to citizens and media practitioners. This shift aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of a transparent administration that fosters accountability and public participation.
The role of media ethics and responsibility
While expanding media freedoms, the government has emphasized the importance of journalistic professionalism and accountability. The proposed Zimbabwe Media Practitioners Council will be tasked with enforcing ethical journalism standards and ensuring responsible reporting.
Information Minister Jenfan Muswere recently underscored this need, referencing the controversy surrounding the Geza program hosted by Blessed Mlanga on Heart & Soul TV, which was criticized for personal attacks on the President. Such incidents highlight the delicate balance between press freedom and responsible journalism.
A commitment to continued progress
President Mnangagwa’s administration has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to media reforms, a vision he has championed since his tenure as Minister of Justice in 1994. His recent engagement with senior media editors on February 17, 2025, exemplifies his open-door policy on national dialogue.
During this no-holds-barred discussion, the President addressed key national issues, including his succession plans – categorically stating that he will not seek to extend his term beyond 2028 – as well as economic and social concerns.
The road to Vision 2030 requires an informed, engaged, and empowered citizenry, and media reforms remain a crucial pillar of that journey. While significant progress has been made, the continuous refinement of policies and regulatory frameworks will be essential in fostering a robust, dynamic, and democratic media environment.
The Second Republic’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the media sector is a testament to Zimbabwe’s evolution toward a more open and democratic society – one where the press is not just a mirror of reality but a catalyst for progress as emphasized by President Mnangagwa at yesterday’s engagement with editors!
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