Brace nation for tough times ahead, Mweetwa tells media
By Ludia Ngwadzai in Choma
THE media in Zambia must not only uphold professionalism but also prepare citizens for difficult times triggered by global economic shocks, chief government spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa has said.
Addressing journalists from various media houses during a two-day Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Media Electoral Reporting Workshop in Choma yesterday, Mweetwa warned that rising fuel costs and broader economic pressures were likely to negatively impact the nation.
He urged broadcasters to remain steadfast in their duty as custodians of truth, cautioning against unverified and unbalanced reporting amid increasing misinformation driven by artificial intelligence (AI).
“Ladies and gentlemen of the media, there is a need for broadcasters to remain beacons of truth by avoiding unverified and unbalanced reporting, especially in the face of growing misinforma
tion fueled by artificial intelligence,” he said.
Mweetwa also called on journalists to uphold the highest standards of responsi
bility in covering the August 2026 general elections.
He said the media played a pivotal role in shaping public perception on government issues.
“Broadcasting stations must stand as beacons of truth, professionalism and national cohesion,” he said.
He commended the IBA and its partners for organising the workshop, noting its national importance and timely focus on election reporting as the country heads towards the polls in the coming months.
Mweetwa emphasised the need for accurate, balanced and verified reporting, urging media practitioners to avoid unverified information, disinformation and hate speech.
“I want to assure you that the government is committed to protecting journalists from harassment and intimidation,” he said.
He also highlighted the challenges posed by digital media and AI-generated content, urging broadcasters to rigorously verify digital material before publication.
Mweetwa underscored the importance of inclusive reporting that reflected diverse voices, including women, youth and marginalised communities.
He acknowledged the critical role played by community and rural radio stations in ensuring no citizen was left behind in civic education, promoting awareness of voting proce
dures, electoral laws and citizens’ rights.
The workshop aims to strengthen Zambia’s broad
casting sector while supporting democratic processes and fostering national unity.
