In 2022, we were optimistic that Southern Africa had turned the corner regarding attacks against journalists. However, we were jolted back to reality by the death of Ralikonelo Joki, the Lesotho broadcaster, who was shot and killed as he drove out of his work of employment. Before his death, Joki received death threats through social media platforms.
Digital rights
MISA Zimbabwe Way Forward Post-2023 Zimbabwe Elections
As highlighted earlier in this report, the media operating environment drastically improved during the 2023 elections compared to previous election seasons.
Internet degrade on the eve of elections
The throttling was reported on NetOne, Econet, TelOne and Liquid telecoms, potentially affecting millions of citizens who rely on the networks.
MEDIA PROFESSIONALISM AND ACCOUNTABILITY DURING ELECTIONS
The media is responsible for providing the public with access to different facts, opinions and ideas and holding authorities and other appropriate officials accountable while promoting the rule of law and respect for human rights.
Media freedom critical pillar of free and fair elections
Promoting and respecting the rights of journalists goes a long way in ensuring their safety and security during political gatherings and events, as the media plays a fundamental role in democratisation, accountability and respect for human rights.
Call for more trainings on safety and security for female journalists
The call was made after MISA Zimbabwe held a safety and security training workshop in Harare on 22 July 2023, which deliberately targeted young female journalists. Thirty female journalists drawn from 25 media houses participated in the training workshop.
ZIMBABWE 2023 ELECTIONS AND BEYOND: Media regulation, Journalism Safety and Security
Sadly, the country continued to witness cases involving the wanton unlawful arrests, assaults, and harassment of journalists with impunity, with none of the perpetrators of these media freedom violations being held accountable or brought to book.
Regional governments commit to more openness as MISA launches press freedom report
MISA Regional Director Tabani Moyo gave a synopsis of the report, explaining that while there were improvements on some aspects, the issue of impunity for crimes against journalists remained a worry.
The State of Press Freedom in Southern Africa Report 2022 ( Now Available)
The rise of digital technologies has presented new challenges in terms of the legislative environments in the region.
MISA nationwide World Press Freedom Day commemorations
The meeting was a confluence of key stakeholders such as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC), the Parliament of Zimbabwe, the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), media and civil society, as they reflected on the theme.