Story by Colette Musanyera

The need for Zimbabwean media to desist from fake and sensational news that harm the country’s re-engagement efforts, was high on the agenda during the celebrations of a local TV station’s first anniversary.

In her remarks, Guest of Honour Senator Monica Mutsvangwa’s rallying point was for both public and private media to report issues from an informed perspective, since the transformation of the country into an upper middle income society hinges largely on responsible media that puts national interest above anything else.

“There is so much development that government is championing and all that needs the media to disseminate it to the citizenry. It is the media that creates the awareness and highlights the milestone so that the wolrd can know that a lot of positivity is oozing. Let us all respect the division of labour mindful of the fact that it is the sum total of all our efforts that will make our country great,” said Senator Mutsvangwa.

Senator Mutsvangwa added the need for media to spread content which fosters peace and unity during the election period.

She said, “Zimbabwe will be holding harmonised elections, and often times the media throws caution to the wind and becomes an instrument for the ferment of discord and anarchy. We have a duty to uphold peace and unity, through the content we feed our citizens. The media industry has a responsibility of trust to foster social harmony and tranquility, particularly during this often emotive period. Let us do our work responsibly and may we observe the laws and dictates of the country as we go about our duties.”

The minister ended by pledging government’s support to the media, to ensure that they carry out their work unimpeded, in a peaceful working environment.