Government Urges Media To Drive National Development Agenda

The Government has urged Zimbabwe’s media sector to take a more proactive role in driving the country’s development narrative and supporting its economic goals, as reforms in the broadcasting and information sectors continue to unfold.

Speaking at the launch of Radio 3000, an online radio service under Jester Media Services, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere emphasized the importance of content that mirrors the nation’s progress.

Dr Muswere said the expansion of the media landscape should deliver programming that reinforces Zimbabwe’s pursuit of an upper middle income economy and reflects the country’s cultural diversity.

“As we expand and reform the media space, it is imperative that all 16 constitutionally recognized languages are represented so that every citizen participates in building our economy,” he said.

He added that digitalisation and the recent amendments to the Broadcasting Services Act, now inclusive of internet based broadcasting, have created unprecedented opportunities for media to reach global audiences and promote national interests.

“Media has a duty to inform citizens, attract foreign and domestic investment, and strengthen value chains across all sectors, including tobacco. Together, we can build the Zimbabwe we aspire to, one deserving of the title ‘the jewel of Africa,’” Dr Muswere said.

Jester Media Services Broadcasting Division Managing Director, Mr Zweli Sibanda, applauded the expanding media freedoms under the Second Republic. He noted a rising demand for on demand audio content, reflected in the growing popularity of podcasts both locally and internationally.

“With Radio 3000, we’re positioning ourselves to meet this demand and provide advertisers with a fully integrated media and marketing platform,” he said.

Meanwhile, the launch event included a tour of the Zimpapers Digital Superdesk, where Group Acting Editorial Executive, Mr Elias Mambo, showcased the media house’s integrated approach to digital news production.

“This digital newsroom aligns with the government’s vision of media digitalisation,” Mr Mambo said.

By promoting content that supports national development and fosters inclusive participation, the Government believes Zimbabwe’s media can evolve from traditional watchdog roles to becoming key drivers of unity, investment, and socio-economic transformation