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Dr. Jenfan Muswere, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services has said universal access to information is the cornerstone of development.
He made the remarks at the International Day for Universal Access to Information and World Postal Day commemorations at Chivi Growth Point yesterday.
“It is crucial for us to realise that universal access to information is a cornerstone of development and as a country we are riding on developments in the media landscape,” Hon Muswere said.
The commemoration was held under the theme: “The importance of online space and universal access to information for a safe and connected future.”
Minister Muswere said Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies must work together for the greater good and break the silo mentality that has for years inhibited growth.
The Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, UNESCO, and other stakeholders jointedly organised the commemoration of the International Day for Universal Access to Information and World Postal Day.
Hon Muswere said this year’s celebrations came at a time when stakeholders are making strides in fulfilling Sustainable Development Goal number 16 (SDG 16) which guarantees public access to information through enhanced use of enabling communication and information technology.
At the local level, the Zimbabwean Constitution, in Section 62 guarantees citizens the right to access information, where it says “Every Zimbabwean citizen or permanent resident including juristic persons and the Zimbabwean media has the right to access information.”
“Access to the Internet in today’s digital world is crucial for access to information. This is why the Government is unrelenting in the provision of affordable Internet in all parts of the country in fulfillment of His Excellency, President ED Mnangagwa’s vision of leaving no one and no place behind. Undoubtedly access to information is now a basic human right just like any other human right. The Government is working with key stakeholders in creating an informed nation.
“It is crucial for us to realise that universal access to information is a cornerstone of development and as a country we are riding on developments in the media landscape. These include the operationalization of 14 community radio stations and eight campus radio stations dotted across the country to disseminate information in all parts of the country,” Dr. Muswere added.
New technologies and digital platforms are increasing and this has enabled quick access to information and sharing. Today a mere click of a button simultaneously allows one to access and disseminate information. New communication technologies have necessitated events happening in one part of the world to be felt in another in real time thus enabling citizens to partake in the globalization process.
Dr Muswere said worth noting, however, is that while access to information has been enhanced, so too has misinformation and disinformation. False information has been peddled across the globe, leading to unnecessary panic and mayhem in the worst of scenarios.
He encouraged stakeholders to be guided by ethics despite being under a constant barrage of misinformation and disinformation.
“Let us refrain from abusing the privilege we have in accessing information and deciphering truth from lies. The media is a weapon that should be used responsibly as recklessness could create anarchy and sow seeds of conflict. The media should be used to heal the nation, foster peace, and indeed be a harbinger of development. It is refreshing that we have all, including the media, adapted to the new technological phenomenon by embracing technological innovation in our various spheres of influence. ”
In her remarks on the same occasion, Hon Tatenda Mavetera, the Minister of ICT, Postal, and Courier Services said her ministry is doing a lot of work to ensure universal access to information for a safe and connected future.
“The commissioning of the Chivi Communication Information Centre and a Public Finance Management System kiosk at the Chivi District Development Office is a testament to the work we are doing. These facilities are part of the 202 Community Information Centres that have been established throughout the country as part of the government’s efforts to bridge the information gap between the rural and urban populace,” she said.