Mnangagwa launches Zimbabwe media policy framework

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has officially launched the new Zimbabwe Media Policy framework at State House in Harare, marking a significant milestone in the government's efforts to modernize and strengthen the country's media landscape. The launch event, held this morning, was attended by the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Jenfan Muswere, along with a wide array of media stakeholders, government officials, and civil society representatives.

The newly unveiled policy is being described by officials as a comprehensive framework designed to promote a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive media sector in Zimbabwe. It is aimed at creating an environment that supports access to information, encourages innovation, and fosters a competitive media industry that aligns with the country's development aspirations.

In his remarks, President Mnangagwa emphasized the strategic role of media in nation-building, underlining that a well-structured media environment is essential to safeguarding Zimbabwe's sovereignty and advancing democratic values. He said the policy reflects the government's commitment to ensuring that the media serves not only as a platform for free expression but also as a key contributor to the country's economic and social development.

Information Minister Jenfan Muswere echoed these sentiments, stating that the media policy framework will guide reforms across the sector, strengthen ethical standards, and promote media professionalism. He added that the policy seeks to empower local journalists and institutions to tell Zimbabwe's story from a position of integrity and national pride.

The policy is also expected to serve as a tool for implementing constitutional mandates related to media freedom and development, while ensuring that the industry adheres to strict codes of ethics and accountability. It envisions a media sector that not only reflects the country's diversity but also promotes national cohesion and public engagement in development processes.

Officials say the broader vision of the policy is to cultivate a media environment that supports Zimbabwe's transformation into an upper-middle-income society by 2030. This includes enhancing local content production, expanding digital access, and reinforcing the media's role in shaping narratives that reflect the country's identity, resilience, and aspirations.

With this launch, the government has signaled a renewed drive toward aligning Zimbabwe's media laws and practices with both regional and global standards, paving the way for a more dynamic and responsible press.