Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe on Sunday joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Press Freedom Day, with the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Zhemu Soda, calling on the media to use its freedom as a force for national unity rather than division.
In a statement to mark the occasion, Dr Soda underscored the critical role of a free, independent, and responsible press as a cornerstone of democracy, while highlighting significant strides made under the Second Republic led by Emmerson Mnangagwa.
He pointed to key reforms such as the enactment of the Freedom of Information Act, the operationalization of the Zimbabwe Media Commission, and the licensing of over 40 new radio stations, including community broadcasters, as evidence of Government’s commitment to media freedom.
“These demonstrate a Government that trusts its people and recognizes that an informed citizenry is essential to democracy,” said Dr Soda.
However, the Minister warned against the misuse of press freedom, urging journalists and citizens alike to reject polarisation and instead promote cohesion.
“Press freedom should not be a weapon to divide, but a bridge to connect communities, amplify diverse voices, and build a shared national story,” he said.
Dr Soda also raised concern over the growing threat of misinformation, disinformation, and artificial intelligence-driven deepfakes, which he described as a danger to social cohesion, national security, and individual dignity.
“Press freedom does not mean freedom to lie, to manipulate, or to destroy,” he said, calling for strict adherence to ethical journalism standards, including fact-checking, accountability, and responsible reporting.
In response to these challenges, the Government has embarked on a nationwide media literacy programme aimed at equipping citizens with critical thinking skills to identify false information and distinguish credible sources.
The initiative will target schools, communities, and digital platforms, with the Minister urging stakeholders, including educators, civil society, and media organisations, to collaborate in its implementation.
“A free press must be matched by a discerning public.
An empowered citizen is the best defence against disinformation,” he said.
Dr Soda further emphasized the need for the media to uphold Zimbabwean cultural values, cautioning against the adoption of foreign ideologies that may undermine the country’s traditions and identity.
He described the media as a “custodian of culture” with a responsibility to tell Zimbabwe’s stories, celebrate its heritage, and critique constructively.
“The Ministry is not an adversary but a partner in building a better Zimbabwe,” he said, appealing for cooperation across the media landscape.
As the country marked World Press Freedom Day, Dr Soda paid tribute to media practitioners, acknowledging their role in shaping public discourse and national development.
“Your freedom is precious. Protect it, and use it wisely,” he said.
World Press Freedom Day is observed every May 3 to defend journalism and free expression worldwide.
It was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO.
It is held to celebrate the principles of press freedom, assess the state of press freedom globally and to defend media from attacks on independence.
New Ziana
