Radio programming must be free from political interference

ANNUALLY on February 13, Zimbabwe joins the global family of nations in commemorating World Radio Day. The occasion to celebrate the milestones and reflect on the challenges of the world most accessed medium was proclaimed an international day by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012.

Over the years, World Radio Day has grown to become a significant day on the media calendar.

Amid the pomp and fanfare associated with commemorative days especially among those behind radio, from the founders and owners, management, editorial team, producers to presenters that work tirelessly to deliver programming on every single hour and day without fail, there is despondent idealism on the future of radio broadcasting globally owing to a myriad of factors.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, the UN agency that takes the lead on media freedom issues have linked some of the challenges of radio broadcasting to the declining professional standards of the content being produced on radio, sustainability challenges, lack of adaptability and failure to transform to the digital realities affecting the medium.

Digital and physical safety: Reporting during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022

Throughout the pandemic, journalists have played a crucial role informing the public about the risks of COVID-19.

The global situation continues to evolve, and many countries are increasing or relaxing travel restrictions and safety measures as coronavirus variants of concern are identified, and as the COVID-19 vaccination programme gathers pace.

Basic COVID-19 mitigation:

⬤Consider getting a COVID-19 vaccination, if available, in advance of any assignment. You may still be able to transmit the virus, according to the United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

⬤Try to work in well-ventilated areas with a fresh air flow whenever possible.

⬤Stay two metres from others whenever possible to observe social distancing.

⬤Face masks should be worn if social distancing cannot be maintained for a prolonged period. Additional personal protective equipment is sensible in higher risk areas.

⬤Wash your hands regularly. ⬤Use alcohol-based hand sanitiser gel as necessary.

⬤Sanitise all equipment regularly.

⬤Try and limit the number of people you are exposed to through work.

Zimbabwe: Request for fair and balanced coverage during elections

Misa Zimbabwe has written to the chief executive officer of the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation requesting the State broadcaster’s implementation plan for fair and balanced coverage of political parties during elections.

The letter comes at a time when the country is headed towards by-elections on March 26, 2022 as proclaimed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.