News / National
Minister calls for fact-based journalism
1 hr ago | Views
Journalists have been urged to prioritise fact-based reporting to effectively convey the true Zimbabwean story and contribute to the development of the Matabeleland South province. This call was made by Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, during the World Press Freedom Day commemoration organised by the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) Matabeleland South Chapter on Saturday.
Minister Nguluvhe emphasised the crucial role of journalists in shaping public discourse and promoting societal progress. He expressed concern over the alarming rise of fake news and misinformation, highlighting the damaging impact of such practices on society.
"The level of fake news and misinformation has reached disturbing levels, and such a practice is detrimental to society," Minister Nguluvhe said, warning that false information spreads quickly, particularly through social media platforms. He urged journalists to be vigilant and ensure that the information shared with the public is accurate and verified.
"Today marks a great day in the development of journalism and freedom of mankind through the dissemination of information that is correct and credible, leading to the welfare and betterment of humanity," he added.
The Minister stressed that the core of civilisation's progress lies in the creation of spaces that allow people access to reliable information, which is essential for informed decision-making across all sectors. He encouraged journalists to be agile in their reporting, especially when combating the spread of misinformation.
"With the prevalence of incorrect and fake information that spreads like a veld fire, the communications practitioner must have their ear on the ground and eyes open," said Minister Nguluvhe. He warned that unchecked counterfeit information could quickly gain credibility and pose significant risks to society.
"Once released into the mainstream and unconventional media, such information has the tendency of quickly mutating itself into different forms, some of which are destructive," he added.
Minister Nguluvhe further emphasised that World Press Freedom Day serves as a reminder to promote free, independent, and fact-based journalism. He called on media professionals to ensure that correct information reaches the public without alteration. He also called for collaborative efforts among journalists, development agencies, and the Government to address the rise of fake news.
"The essence of this day is to reflect on how journalists can enhance their work by aligning it with factual accuracy rather than hearsay. As a leader, it is prudent to check on how one's actions will contribute to posterity," said Minister Nguluvhe.
Journalists were also reminded of the significant impact their reporting can have. Minister Nguluvhe pointed out that a single unverified report could influence the nation and beyond. "The click of a button into the digital space can constitute the difference between peace and war," he warned.
The Minister also turned attention to the story of Matabeleland South, stressing the importance of local voices in telling their own stories. He highlighted that the media should focus on the challenges faced by rural populations, with locals at the forefront of attracting investment and support for development.
"Our story should be shared by us," he declared, urging the media to give a platform to local narratives that reflect the region's true challenges and aspirations.
World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, serves to raise awareness about the critical role of a free press in society. Established by the United Nations General Assembly, the day reminds governments of their duty to uphold the right to freedom of expression, as outlined in Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The day also commemorates the Windhoek Declaration of 1991, created by African journalists, which underscores the fundamental principles of a free press. The observance encourages reflection on the challenges faced by journalists and the importance of safeguarding press freedom globally.
Minister Nguluvhe emphasised the crucial role of journalists in shaping public discourse and promoting societal progress. He expressed concern over the alarming rise of fake news and misinformation, highlighting the damaging impact of such practices on society.
"The level of fake news and misinformation has reached disturbing levels, and such a practice is detrimental to society," Minister Nguluvhe said, warning that false information spreads quickly, particularly through social media platforms. He urged journalists to be vigilant and ensure that the information shared with the public is accurate and verified.
"Today marks a great day in the development of journalism and freedom of mankind through the dissemination of information that is correct and credible, leading to the welfare and betterment of humanity," he added.
The Minister stressed that the core of civilisation's progress lies in the creation of spaces that allow people access to reliable information, which is essential for informed decision-making across all sectors. He encouraged journalists to be agile in their reporting, especially when combating the spread of misinformation.
"With the prevalence of incorrect and fake information that spreads like a veld fire, the communications practitioner must have their ear on the ground and eyes open," said Minister Nguluvhe. He warned that unchecked counterfeit information could quickly gain credibility and pose significant risks to society.
"Once released into the mainstream and unconventional media, such information has the tendency of quickly mutating itself into different forms, some of which are destructive," he added.
Minister Nguluvhe further emphasised that World Press Freedom Day serves as a reminder to promote free, independent, and fact-based journalism. He called on media professionals to ensure that correct information reaches the public without alteration. He also called for collaborative efforts among journalists, development agencies, and the Government to address the rise of fake news.
"The essence of this day is to reflect on how journalists can enhance their work by aligning it with factual accuracy rather than hearsay. As a leader, it is prudent to check on how one's actions will contribute to posterity," said Minister Nguluvhe.
Journalists were also reminded of the significant impact their reporting can have. Minister Nguluvhe pointed out that a single unverified report could influence the nation and beyond. "The click of a button into the digital space can constitute the difference between peace and war," he warned.
The Minister also turned attention to the story of Matabeleland South, stressing the importance of local voices in telling their own stories. He highlighted that the media should focus on the challenges faced by rural populations, with locals at the forefront of attracting investment and support for development.
"Our story should be shared by us," he declared, urging the media to give a platform to local narratives that reflect the region's true challenges and aspirations.
World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, serves to raise awareness about the critical role of a free press in society. Established by the United Nations General Assembly, the day reminds governments of their duty to uphold the right to freedom of expression, as outlined in Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The day also commemorates the Windhoek Declaration of 1991, created by African journalists, which underscores the fundamental principles of a free press. The observance encourages reflection on the challenges faced by journalists and the importance of safeguarding press freedom globally.
Source - the herald
