The Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Soda Zhemu, has called for the strengthening of ethical standards across Zimbabwe’s broadcasting sector.
Speaking at the Broadcasting Evolution Zimbabwe Conference hosted by the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ), yesterday, Minister Zhemu emphasised the need for broadcasters to uphold integrity across both traditional and digital platforms.
“At the Broadcasting Evolution Zimbabwe Conference, hosted by the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe (BAZ), today, I called for the strengthening of ethical standards across all broadcasting platforms, digital and online included,” said Minister Zhemu.
He stressed that despite the rapid evolution of media driven by digital technologies, the fundamental values of journalism remain unchanged and must be safeguarded.
“The timeless values of professional journalism accuracy, fairness, verification, and public accountability must remain the bedrock of our media sector, irrespective of technological change,” he said.
Zhemu noted that the expansion of online and digital broadcasting platforms has increased the speed at which information is disseminated, creating both opportunities and risks for the media industry.
“I have to caution that without strong ethical grounding, the broadcasting sector risks losing public trust,” he said.
The Minister urged media practitioners to resist the temptation of prioritising speed over accuracy, highlighting that credibility remains the cornerstone of effective journalism.
“Ethical lapses not only damage individual institutions but also undermine the credibility of the entire media sector. I strongly call for enhanced regulatory oversight and collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that ethical standards are consistently applied across all broadcasting platforms,” the Minister noted.
Zimbabwe’s broadcasting sector has undergone significant transformation in recent years, with the advent of digital technologies and the licensing of new players.
However, the growth of online platforms has also raised concerns over misinformation, disinformation and declining ethical standards, prompting renewed calls for accountability and adherence to professional journalism principles.
