By Tinashe Mukori | Harare \u2013 28 May 2025<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a landmark event held at State House in Harare today, President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially launched Zimbabwe\u2019s long-awaited Media Policy, a transformative document designed to usher the country\u2019s media landscape into the digital era while reaffirming national sovereignty and ethical journalism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Addressing a gathering that included top government officials, media stakeholders, and diplomats, the President described the new policy as a pivotal framework that aims to ensure the availability of factual, accurate, and reliable information for all Zimbabweans. He emphasized that the policy is both a response to rapid technological changes – particularly in artificial intelligence, and a proactive measure to safeguard the country\u2019s democracy and cultural identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cArtificial Intelligence is revolutionising the way we gather, produce and share information,\u201d the President noted. \u201cWhile this creates immense opportunity, it also presents challenges in ethics, misinformation, and national sovereignty – challenges this policy is designed to confront.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The policy launch comes amid increasing concerns worldwide over the influence of global tech giants on national discourse, data privacy, and the sustainability of local content ecosystems. Zimbabwe\u2019s response, the President said, involves strengthening regulatory frameworks, promoting content accountability, and introducing fair taxation and revenue-sharing measures for digital platforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cOur people deserve protection from exploitative digital practices,\u201d President Mnangagwa said. \u201cDigital literacy and ethical journalism must go hand in hand.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Media Policy also aligns with Sections 61 and 62 of the Zimbabwean Constitution, which enshrine media freedom and access to information. In keeping with these values, the President reaffirmed the government\u2019s commitment to fostering a diverse, independent, and inclusive media environment – one that reflects Zimbabwe\u2019s culture, history, and aspirations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Calling for a shift from past adversarial practices, Cde Mnangagwa urged media practitioners to become ambassadors of truth, progress, and national unity. \u201cThere is no place in today\u2019s Zimbabwe for media that demonises our country for notoriety,\u201d he said. \u201cWe must shape and share our own story, rooted in resilience, dignity, and hope.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Significant progress has already been made in expanding media infrastructure. Fourteen community radio stations have been licensed, serving as vital platforms for indigenous languages and local cultures. Major projects are also underway, including the digitalisation of ZBC\u2019s Montrose Studios in Bulawayo and the modernisation of Zimpapers, aimed at increasing competitiveness in a fast-evolving digital space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The President closed his remarks with a rallying call to all media stakeholders: \u201cLet us use this policy to amplify our national brand, promote unity, and foster inclusive growth. A responsible, modern and accountable media is vital for our constitutional democracy and national development.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With the Zimbabwe Media Policy now officially in effect, the country takes a decisive step toward reclaiming narrative sovereignty, promoting local voices, and building a media sector that serves as both a mirror and a compass for the nation\u2019s future.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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