Government tasks media experts to propose solutions for growth of media freedom

An annual media convention has opened in Lusaka with government calling on media experts to come up with tangible resolutions that will provide fertile ground for growth of free, independent and professional media.

The meeting is hosted by the Southern African Editors Forum (SAEF) and the Media Liaison Committee (MLC).

Addressing delegates at the meeting in Lusaka on Thursday, Information and Media Minister, Chushi Kasanda, said government remains resolute in striving to ensure that the media in the country attains a conducive environment to execute its duties.

She said the media has a pivotal role in ensuring that members of the general citizenry are credibly informed on issues stating that this can only be only be attained when press freedom is ascertained.

“Zambia currently has about 150 radio stations and over 50 television station. Additionally, the country has several newspapers in circulation,” Kasanda said.

She said this diversity of media platforms has widened access to information and space for citizens to express themselves on various issues of national interest.

“On our part as governments, we pledge our commitment to continuously improve the environments for the media to flourish,” Kasanda said.

She further tasked the delegates convened to ensure that they come up with tangible regulations to enhance the sector.

Chairman for East African Editors, Churchill Otieno, noted with concern that the media in the region have continued to face interferences a narrative, which he said needs to change.

Otieno has since appealed to the African media convention committee to elect a monitoring committee that will ensure accountability and implementation of convention resolutions.

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