Maravi

(TALKZIMBABWE) Gvt urges new papers to publish

Gvt urges new papers to publish
By: TH
Posted: Monday, October 11, 2010 1:35 am

MEDIA, Information and Publicity Minister Webster Shamu has expressed concern at the failure by various media organisations to publish newspapers after getting their licences.

Government recently issued licences to four media organisations with only one newspaper hitting the streets. Alpha Media Holdings’ NewsDay has been published after getting a licence from the Zimbabwe Media Commission.

In an interview yesterday, Minister Shamu said Government was worried by delays by media organisations in publishing their papers.

“We were expecting all the licensed papers to be on the streets as we speak but only one has been published,” he said.

Minister Shamu said Government was not intent on denying its citizens the right to access information of their choice.

“We are the ones who brought freedom and independence, so why would we not allow our people to enjoy that? We brought freedom and we are determined to give it to our citizens.”

He said many people had called for Government to register more media players but when licences were issued the organisations were now dragging their feet.

“We have responded to their cries and nothing is being done, where are they? Why are they not publishing?”

Minister Shamu applauded AMH for its quick response to publish.

“I want to commend Trevor (Ncube) for a job well done.

“He has done what he promised, and NewsDay is on the streets,” he said.

The minister said the Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe would issue licences to new players in the industry.

“We are preparing our people to become good broadcasters. They must learn from ZBC.”

He said Government was afraid broadcasters would also sit on the licences.

“We can give them the licences and you will see no one broadcasting,” he said.

Minister Shamu said Government was committed to the development of the media industry.

“Let me reiterate our unreserved commitment to the media industry, particularly its increasing important role in the development of our country,” he said.

He said Government remained committed to multiple voices in the media industry.

Labels: MEDIA, WEBSTER SHAMU

posted by MrK @ 1:06 AM