Staff Reporter

Emphasising the Second Republic's vision for nation-building, the newly sworn-in Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Jenfan Muswere, has underscored the importance of shared responsibility across all media entities in Zimbabwe.

Addressing the media at the ministerial swearing-in ceremony at State House in Harare yesterday, Minister Muswere emphasised the significance of Section 61 of the Zimbabwean Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of expression, encompassing the freedom to seek, receive, and communicate ideas, as well as the freedom of artistic and scientific expression.

Citing these constitutional guarantees, Minister Muswere elucidated, "The direction of information will be well taken care of. A shared responsibility across all media houses is central to my mandate."

Minister Muswere further articulated the Ministry's vision of fostering unity among Zimbabweans.

“Our nation, Zimbabwe, always comes first. As the Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services Minister, I commit to representing all media entities and appreciating their diverse perspectives. Our primary aim is nation-building and ensuring an informed society,” said Minister Muswere.

Highlighting the importance of an informed public in the context of national development, Minister Muswere commented on the transformative potential of a society equipped with the necessary knowledge.

In acknowledgment of the rapidly evolving digital age and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Minister Muswere emphasised the role of social media. With approximately eight million Zimbabweans actively engaged on various digital platforms, the Minister emphasised the importance of integrating mainstream media with these platforms to ensure widespread access to information.

The Minister also shed light on the Second Republic's accomplishments in broadening the media spectrum, noting the licencing of 14 community radio stations and six national free-to-air television stations.

Moreover, he mentioned the on-going efforts to expand the airwaves, aiming to bolster digital rights and fortify citizens' and content creators' freedom of expression and access to information.

Endorsing the Second Republic's objective, the Minister concluded, "Our goal is to ensure no Zimbabwean is left behind in any sector, including access to information."