The United Nations (UN) has called on Zimbabwe to bolster its media capacity as a strategic driver for national development, industrialisation  and the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, urging greater collaboration, professionalism and empowerment of journalists to foster inclusive progress. 

Speaking at the third Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Media Indaba in Bulawayo on Thursday, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Edward Kallon, stressed that media development is not just about freedom of expression but about equipping the media to be a powerful engine of nation-building.

“The United Nations System in Zimbabwe actively supports a robust media landscape that ensures accurate, timely, and objective reporting on development, recovery and humanitarian issues,” said Kallon. 

“Media freedom in Zimbabwe has allowed for new communication methods, broadening individuals’ participation, identity and belonging in society.”

Under the discussion, “The Role of the UN in Fostering Media Development in Zimbabwe,” Kallon highlighted the strategic importance of the media in promoting democracy, human rights, and economic transformation, asserting that the sector’s transformation must be intentional, well-resourced and people-centered.

He noted that Zimbabweans today enjoy access to diverse information platforms, from print and broadcast to community radios and digital spaces, which, when used responsibly, can catalyse positive change. 

“As UN, we understand and appreciate that each medium carries a message, targets specific audiences, and influences change, attitudes, perceptions, and decision-making, shaping behaviors accordingly,” said Kallon.

The UN’s approach to supporting Zimbabwe’s national development priorities and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) involves direct collaboration with media stakeholders. Kallon also commended the Ministry of Information and its Permanent Secretary, Nick Mangwana, for the “excellent collaboration” with the UN in advancing these efforts.

“The UN supports media building to help the country achieve SDGs by strengthening the media’s ability to report on and promote these goals,” he said.

“This includes providing training, resources, and recognition for journalists, particularly those working on gender equality and maternal health.”

Kallon also outlined key interventions by the UN to enhance media effectiveness in Zimbabwe noting that under legislative support, the UN, through entities such as UNESCO, has backed legislative reforms including the enactment of the Freedom of Information Act, the Broadcasting Services Act, and the Data Privacy Act. 

“These laws improve the space for media freedom and public discourse,” he said.

Secondly, on capacity building and exposure, Kallon said in partnership with the Ministry of Information, the UN hosts annual development reporting seminars and offers journalists exposure to UN-supported projects.

Thirdly, on training and resources, Kallon said journalists must receive support in the form of training, equipment, and awards for excellence in reporting on key issues such as climate action and gender-based violence.

Under digital empowerment, as a fourth factor, the UN resident coordinator said recognising the shift towards digital journalism, the UN encourages young reporters to leverage online platforms to drive inclusive storytelling and address gender disparities.

Fifth, on consultation and advocacy, Kallon said the UN facilitates national and local consultations that engage the media in shaping and implementing development strategies, particularly around the SDGs. 

Six, under a focus on key SDGs, the UN resident coordinator said special attention is given to SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), highlighting the media’s critical watchdog role in holding authorities accountable.

According to Kallon, an empowered and professional media sector is essential to combating misinformation, building public trust, and enabling citizens to make informed decisions that shape the country’s trajectory.

“Media and journalists have been crucial in sharing facts and dispelling myths about natural disasters and disease outbreaks,” he said.

“Accurate and timely reporting proved vital in combating the pandemic and the infodemic.”

On climate change, Kallon warned against growing disinformation and urged the media to take up its role in climate advocacy, noting that the UN continues to provide climate adaptation resources for journalists.

Kallon noted that strengthening the media is not just a matter of policy, it is a moral and strategic imperative. 

“Media should amplify the voices of society’s vulnerable, including children, those with disabilities, women and marginalised groups,” he said.

“Their stories can influence behavior changes and mobilise support for action.”

The UN resident coordinator concluded with a call for responsible journalism and ethical standards.

“To fulfill the media’s role, professionalism and objectivity are crucial. Media bias and sensationalism hinder contributions to national development. Media freedom must coincide with responsibility,” Kallon advised.

As Zimbabwe works toward becoming an upper middle-income country by 2030, Kallon reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting the country’s vision, through a strong, empowered and inclusive media.

“I reiterate that the UN values its partnership with the media in advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and supporting Zimbabwe’s government and people to realise these goals and their aspirations for a strong resilient and upper middle income society by 2030,” he said. The Zimbabwean