Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
THE media has been challenged to ensure the implementation and fulfilment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Agenda 2063 and the National Development Strategy by playing its watchdog role.
As the government moves towards ensuring the attainment of SDGs, Agenda 2063 and Vision 2030, the capacitation of journalists to report on those issues has been cited as key.
Journalists from various media outlets participated in a two-day Media Engagement and Capacitation Workshop on Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063 held in Masvingo.
Journalist, Conrad Mwanawashe of Maricho Media said, “I am happy to be part of the team that received training on SDGs and our own National Development Strategy. Now we will be able to write stories from an informed point of view, emphasising the importance of community participation to fulfil those goals.”
“From here, we are now aware of the role we are supposed to play that of creating awareness on SDGs, track implementation of them and play our watchdog role,” added ZBC journalist, Ian Vambe.
Government said it recognises the importance of the media in ensuring the achievement of global and national development goals.
The deputy director SDG and Agenda 2063 Unit – Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Ms Sylocious Chaturika said, “One of the key outcomes of media capacitation is the ability to raise awareness and understanding of the SDGs and Agenda 2063 among the public. Informed journalists are crucial for translating complex issues into relatable narratives, enabling citizens to grasp the significance of these goals and their implications for local contexts. This understanding fosters informed public participation and drives action toward sustainable development.”
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) highlighted the importance of localising SDGs to measure progress towards their implementation.
“Media is a key stakeholder in the implementation of SGDs and they can enhance public awareness while fostering informed discourse,” said UNDP’s National Economist, Ms Ethel Bangwayo.
Zimbabwe has made significant strides towards the attainment of SDGs and the national vision through community development programmes, infrastructure development and adoption of policies that create an environment for growth.
