The Government of Zimbabwe is currently reviewing the salaries and working conditions of public sector journalists as part of broader measures aimed at enhancing welfare in the media sector, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere has revealed. Speaking at the 2024-2025 National Journalism and Media Awards (Njama) in Harare on Thursday evening, Dr Muswere said the review reflects the Government’s acknowledgment of the critical role journalists play in advancing national development, promoting democracy, and driving economic transformation.
“We are adjusting the salaries of media personnel in the public sector. If there are challenges in the private sector, you are free to communicate them; perhaps we can explore ways to improve the situation. Our goal is to enhance both the working conditions and remuneration for journalists,” Dr Muswere said.
The Minister stressed that the media remains a cornerstone of national discourse, tasked with highlighting development milestones, exposing corruption, and informing citizens on matters that affect their daily lives. He emphasized that journalism is central to the achievement of Vision 2030, Zimbabwe’s blueprint for becoming an empowered upper-middle-income nation. According to Dr Muswere, media practitioners not only inform and educate but also foster citizen engagement in governance and socio-economic development.
Highlighting reforms introduced under the Second Republic, Dr Muswere commended the supportive legislative environment for media operations. He cited instruments such as the Freedom of Information Act, the Cyber and Data Protection Act, and other key reforms designed to strengthen transparency, accountability, and access to information. “The Government is transparent, with nothing to hide. The Freedom of Information Act was developed precisely to support a robust media environment and promote open dialogue between journalists and state institutions,” he said.
Public Sector Journalists’ Salaries Under Government Review
Dr Muswere also stressed the need for professionalism, unity, and ethical reporting in journalism. He urged practitioners to prioritize constructive journalism that fosters national cohesion and economic growth rather than reporting that sows division. “We must focus on developing journalism that builds our nation rather than divides it. Zimbabwe is the only country we have, and the media has a responsibility to ensure that all citizens are counted and heard,” he said.
The Minister called for stronger collaboration among media stakeholders to address emerging challenges, particularly those posed by the digital age. He emphasized that government support for journalists is part of a broader effort to recognize the sector as a vital contributor to development and democratic governance.
The awards ceremony also highlighted the achievements of journalists across the country. Emmanuel Kafe, the organizing secretary of the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ), remarked that the Njama awards play a crucial role in promoting excellence in reporting and shaping the nation’s narrative. Over 15 journalists from Zimpapers, the country’s largest media house, were honored during the ceremony, reflecting the depth of talent in the local media landscape.
Langton Nyakwenda, a Zimpapers sports journalist, was named Best Sports Reporter, expressing gratitude to his employer and supervisors for providing him with a platform to excel. Meanwhile, Gibson Mhaka won two awards: Best Legal and Parliamentary Reporter and Best Environmental Reporter, showcasing his versatility and commitment to quality journalism.
Other notable winners included Nqobile Bhebhe, who received the Renewable Energy Journalist of the Year award, and Theseus Shambare, honored for his work in Infrastructure Development Reporting. Veronica Gwaze was recognized as Gender-Based Violence Journalist of the Year, while Trust Freddy took home the News Journalist of the Year award.
Dr Muswere encouraged journalists to continue using their platforms responsibly, emphasizing that their work contributes not only to transparency but also to the socio-economic advancement of the nation. He reiterated the Government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of journalists, ensuring that they are adequately supported to perform their duties professionally and ethically.
With these reforms and recognition programs, Zimbabwe aims to foster a media environment where journalists are empowered, motivated, and equipped to deliver accurate, insightful, and socially responsible reporting. Dr Muswere concluded by reiterating that fair remuneration, good working conditions, and professional development are central to ensuring that the media continues to play its vital role in nation-building.
The Njama awards thus served as both a celebration of journalistic excellence and a platform for announcing Government initiatives designed to uplift media practitioners, reinforcing the critical role of the press in shaping Government’s future.
Source- Herald
