Story by Wellington Makonese
GOVERNMENT has joined the rest of the world in observing World Press Freedom Day, aligning with the global theme that underscores the profound influence of artificial intelligence on both press freedom and the broader media landscape.
In a statement, Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, reiterated the Second Republic’s unwavering commitment, under the leadership of President Mnangagwa, to fostering media plurality and diversity, emphasising government’s proactive efforts in cultivating an enabling environment through significant policy and legal reforms.
Dr Muswere highlighted the landmark repeal of the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA) and the subsequent enactment of progressive media legislation designed to bolster media operations through key pieces of legislation that include the Freedom of Information Act, which has broadened access to information held by government entities, the Zimbabwe Media Commission Act, aimed at standardising journalism training and establishing a robust regulatory Media Council; and the Cyber and Data Protection Act, focused on strengthening national cybersecurity.
Furthermore, the Minister announced the government’s approval of the Zimbabwe Media Policy 2025-2030 a comprehensive policy that outlines critical objectives, including safeguarding national sovereignty, nurturing a vibrant and sustainable media industry, transforming the media landscape through strategic infrastructure development, promoting the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, ensuring media viability, upholding national values, among a host of issues.
Turning to the transformative power of the digital realm, Minister Muswere acknowledged the significant impact of digitalization and enhanced network connectivity on society.
He drew attention to the revised Zimbabwe National Information and Communication Technology Policy (2022-2027), which strategically focuses on crucial areas such as infrastructure development, fostering research and innovation, and driving industry growth.
The Minister also highlighted the government’s recent approval of a national Artificial Intelligence framework, underscoring its potential for widespread national benefit. He further elaborated on the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, with its pivotal sector-focused pillars, including Smart Government, Smart Cities, and Smart Agriculture, all underpinned by robust foundations in policy, infrastructure, and skills development.
Acknowledging the transformative potential of AI, Dr Muswere emphasised its capacity to contribute to critical areas such as humanitarian relief, climate change mitigation, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. He urged the media fraternity to embrace these opportunities responsibly, while upholding the highest ethical reporting standards and respecting fundamental constitutional rights.
Minister Muswere reaffirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to cultivating a media environment that effectively balances technological innovation with ethical considerations, ensuring that advancements in technology serve the public good without encroaching upon individual rights or undermining national interests.
