Story by Memory Chamisa
OUTSTANDING media practitioners have been honoured for their hard work at this year’s edition of the National Journalism and Media Awards (NJAMA).
ZBC Arts reporter, Colette Musanyera, Investigative Editor Theophilus Chuma and Television Producer Walter Chari were part of the journalists who were honoured at this year’s awards held Thursday evening in Harare.
The trio received honours for their sterling reportage in Arts, Culture and Entertainment, Climate and Environment, Community and Rural Development, Renewable Energy and Mental Health categories.
“I am happy to have been honoured and appreciated for my work and this is something that has even motivated me to continue working harder. I am grateful to my editors and colleagues who motivate and bring out the best in me,” said Musanyera.
“It is satisfying when you get recognition for your work and many thanks go out to my editors and team who always ensure I’m given the resources to enable me to do the work that has scooped the awards here today,” said Chuma.
“I am happy and grateful to the communities that opened their doors to us and allowed me to write their stories to the world. Had it not been for them, we wouldn’t be celebrating here today. So this goes out to them,” said Chari.
Guest of Honour, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere applauded all the winners for telling the Zimbabwean story to the world and reassured journalists of the government’s commitment towards the improvement of their welfare.
“Journalists have the power to develop a nation through their reportage. We have witnessed positive outcomes from you guys especially on the work that has been done by the Second Republic through the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
“Criticism here and there has also kept the government on its toes and is the compass for improvement and accountability. Yes, we are aware there are issues of welfare, and remuneration bedevilling the Industry but be rest assured the Ministry is working on ensuring that you are capacitated and live a respectable life,” said Dr Muswere.
A moment of silence was also taken for those who passed on including the late ZBC’ photo journalist Idah Mhetu and cameraperson Tinashe Rupende.
The NJAMAs are an annual event coordinated by the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists in partnership with several sponsors.