By Jessica Mwansa
WE are in the process of reviewing the Media Development Policy to bring it in line with current trends in the media both nationally and internationally, Ministry of Media and Information Permanent Secretary Kenneth Kalunga has said.
Mr. Kalunga says the development calls for active and effective participation in the process from the media fraternity and all stakeholders.
Speaking when he officiated at the launch of the State of the Media report for the last two quarters of 2022 by MISA Zambia and Friedrich Ebert Stifftung (FES) Zambia, Mr. Kalunga says this is in line with Government’s commitment to ensure that the media sector thrives in Zambia because it plays a critical role in the dispensation of good governance.
He reaffirmed the Government’s recognition of the importance of a vibrant and independent media sector because of the crucial role it plays in promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.
“The media is also an important catalyst for freedom of expression which is one of the fundamental tenets of a thriving democracy such as the one Zambia enjoys,” Mr. Kalunga said.
And Mr. Kalunga says the Government is concerned that it is taking too long for the media fraternity to reach consensus on how to proceed with self-regulation mechanisms.
Speaking at the same event, FES Zambia Resident Representative Fritz Kopsieker noted that from the time Zambians ushered in a new Government in 2021, the Media landscape had enjoyed a breath of fresh air compared to the period before the elections.
Mr. Kopsieker also underscored the importance of a free media in growing democracy.
The launch was also attended by leaders of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) as well as a representative from the Zambia Police Service.
