Utvecklingssamarbete / Development Cooperation

Promoting media reforms and capacity development

Article 19 of the Global Political Agreement signed by Zanu PF and the two MDC formations sets the stage for media reforms as it recognises the importance of the right to freedom of expression and the role of the media in a multi-party democracy. Sida has positioned itself to support media reforms through partnering with and funding media organisations such as the Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe(VMCZ) and Media Institute of Southern Africa(MISA).

A major achievement in the area of media reform has been the setting up and strengthening of a Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe (VMCZ) which seeks to establish an effective system for professional self-regulation of the media. Through Sida support the VMCZ through FOJO has been able to develop the capacity in the media sector through planning to implement 20 one-week mid-career training courses for journalists.

Starting Date: October 2008 up to 2011


Amount Contributed: 4, 500,000 SEK

Results:

To date, 9 training workshops have been held and 180 journalists trained. The trainings have helped develop local capacity. All the courses were run by two trainers: one regional/international and one local.