Source: Media reaffirms commitment to national development agenda – herald
Herald Reporter
Media practitioners have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s development agenda and safeguarding national interests through responsible reporting and strategic communication.
Speaking at a Joint Command Media Forum held at the Zimbabwe Staff College in Harare on Tuesday, the practitioners underscored that the media was a powerful tool in shaping national narratives, influencing social dialogue and steering public discourse.
The Herald Editor Victoria Ruzvidzo urged media practitioners to embrace development‑oriented journalism and strengthen collaboration across the sector.
“The media must consciously shift towards development journalism, where stories are not only about events, but about impact,” said Ruzvidzo.
“We must tell stories that build the nation, highlight progress and provide solutions, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”
As a critical pillar in information dissemination, the sector continues to play a central role in promoting national unity, development and security through deliberate and responsible messaging.
Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) chief executive officer Mr Sugar Chagonda said the national broadcaster remains committed to producing content that fosters unity, peace and socio‑economic transformation.
“As the national broadcaster, our mandate goes beyond informing and educating; we are a strategic partner in national development,” he said.
“Our content is crafted to promote cohesion, uphold national values and support Government programmes under the National Development Strategy 2.
“We remain guided by our editorial policies which emphasise accuracy, balance and nation‑building.”
National security considerations also featured prominently during the discussions.
NRTV general manager, Group Captain (Retired) Cleopas Kapondoro, said information remains a strategic national asset.
“The media has a responsibility to ensure that information disseminated does not compromise national security, but instead strengthens it by promoting peace, stability and informed citizenship,” he said.
Representing The Patriot, Mr Evan Mushawevato highlighted the challenges posed by the rapid flow of information in the digital age.
“In today’s digital era, the speed of information dissemination requires everyone to be even more vigilant,” he said.
“Media houses must work together to counter misinformation and ensure that the public receives factual, constructive and development‑oriented content.”
As Zimbabwe moves towards Vision 2030, the media sector is expected to remain a key partner in shaping a unified, informed and progressive society.
The forum provides a platform for engagement between media executives and practitioners from across the country’s diverse media landscape and students undergoing training under the elite Joint Command and Staff Course.
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