02 Dec 2024

One of the priorities of Minister  for State President, Mr Moeti Mohwasa’s agenda is to take challenges faced by the media head on.

It is against this backdrop, that he  has scheduled a significant meeting for December 16, aimed at addressing pressing challenges facing the media sector in Botswana.

In a recent briefing with the MISA Board members in Gaborone, the minister emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Editors Forum and MISA Botswana.  He said the  meeting  would  outline a clear agenda and actionable deliverables on critical issues affecting the media landscape.

Mr Mohwasa pointed out several key challenges currently confronting the media industry, such as a recent advertising ban that has jeopardised media sustainability due to a lack of adequate funding.

He expressed concern for journalists’ welfare, particularly the o issue of ‘brown envelope journalism,’ which jeopardised journalistic integrity in newsrooms.

The minister also recognised the urgent need for improved training for journalists, an area hindered by financial constraints.

MISA Botswana Board Chairman, Mr Thomas Nkhoma, echoed the seriousness of these challenges, affirming that the media sector was experiencing significant hurdles that demanded urgent attention.

He said MISA Botswana has been proactive in promoting best practices and adhering to media ethics through its annual Press Freedom Day, as endorsed by UNESCO.

However, Mr Nkhoma emphasised that media houses and journalists were still encountering persistent difficulties, particularly as media sustainability was increasingly at risk due to the government’s withdrawal of advertising support which is a significant source of revenue.

He highlighted the need for a comprehensive Media Practitioners Act and the establishment of a Complaints Committee to ensure accountability within the media.

Additionally, he raised concerns about the impact of unregulated online publications on media ethics and called for improved access to information, including education on the Data Protection Act.

Mr Nkhoma also addressed the issue of media monopolies, where a single entity operates multiple media outlets, thereby stifling competition and diversity in the media landscape.

He advocated for enshrining freedom of speech within the constitution.

Furthermore, he underscored the urgent need to address the low welfare of journalists, which often drives experienced professionals to seek opportunities outside traditional journalism.

He stressed the importance of supporting community radio stations and highlighted the digital divide that limits access to information for many citizens. Ends