Story by ZBC Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) has announced that its forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) will prioritise the growing challenge posed by unqualified individuals masquerading as journalists.
ZUJ Mashonaland West Provincial Chairperson, James Muonwa, expressed concern over the proliferation of self-styled reporters operating without recognised training or affiliation to professional bodies.
“The AGM will not only be a platform for introspection, but also for charting a way forward to ensure that only trained, accredited, and professional journalists are recognised as practitioners. We cannot continue to allow quacks to undermine the credibility of our work,” he said.
This development comes amid an influx of self-styled reporters, many of whom operate without formal training or affiliation to professional bodies.
Muonwa said members will deliberate on tightening membership requirements, strengthening partnerships with regulatory bodies, and enhancing advocacy for professional training programmes in a bid to restore the sector’s dignity.
“Gone are the days when non-journalists had a say in issues concerning ZUJ. The new Constitution and electoral by-laws prevent masquerades from having any seat in any structure of the organisation,” he added.
Media analysts have welcomed the move, saying restoring order in the profession is key to ensuring accountability and maintaining public trust in journalism.
“Lack of professionalism in the field has also worsened the spread of misinformation, unethical coverage, and extortionist tendencies by some impostors,” Media Scholar, Dr Lyton Ncube noted.
To make matters worse, the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) tools has compounded the issue.
While AI can enhance newsroom efficiency when used responsibly, its misuse has led to poorly written and often out-of-context stories being circulated under the guise of legitimate journalism. Research shows that many of those misusing AI are not trained journalists, but opportunists seeking to pass off substandard content as credible reporting.
Analysts warn that such practices erode public trust and pose a serious threat to the integrity of the profession.
They argue that ZUJ’s resolutions should not only target bogus journalists but also provide guidance on the responsible use of emerging technologies, ensuring that innovation complements rather than undermines journalistic standards.
The AGM is scheduled for this Friday, the 12th, with expectations high that the resolutions passed will set a clear tone for cleaning up the industry.
