CSOs urged to sensitise public on ATI Law
By Mwila Nsofu
Information and Media Permanent Secretary THABO KAWANA has called for concerted efforts between Government and Civil Society Organisations in sensitising the public on the contents of the Access to Information Law.
Mr. KAWANA says even though his ministry has initiated the process of sensitising public office bearers on their role in the successful implementation of the law, there is urgent need for the public to appreciate the objectives of the law.
He was speaking when USAID Open Spaces Project Chief of Party TELDAH MAWARIRE led a delegation from Internews Network in paying a courtesy call on him at his office in Lusaka.
Mr KAWANA stressed that President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has been clear on the need to run an open and transparent Government that is accountable to the people.
Meanwhile, Mr. KAWANA has reiterated his call to the media to remain professional in the discharge of their duties.
He said while Government maintains its position that it will not close any media house in the country, there is need for media houses including radio and television stations to strictly adhere to the provisions of the law and the terms and conditions of their licences.
Mr. KAWANA said his Ministry has a responsibility to ensure the growth of a free, professional and responsible media industry.
And Ms. MAWARIRE who was accompanied by USAID Civil Society and Media Specialist CHARLENE BANGWE and Internews Programmes Manager MECK PHIRI, praised Government for the enactment of the ATI law.
She said her organization will continue working with the Ministry of Information and Media and other government agencies in the implementation process of the law.
Ms. MAWARIRE pledged her organisation’s support and collaboration in sensitizing the public and public office bearers on the Access to Information Law and its implications.
She said the good collaboration her organization has continued to enjoy with the Ministry of Information and Media demonstrates the open-door policy Government has had when it comes to working with the civil society.
Ms. MAWARIRE further informed the Permanent Secretary that Internews was currently participating in the consultative processes of reviewing and replacing the IBA and ZNBC Acts and expressed optimism of a positive outcome.
She also indicated her organisation’s willingness to support the Ministry in reviewing the Media Development Policy.
Among other activities, Ms. MAWARIRE disclosed that the Open Spaces project was supporting 19 community radio stations in six provinces where it is building capacity among journalists so that they are well equipped in terms of professionalism and observance of media ethics.
This is according to a statement issued to ZNBC News by the Public and Media Relations Unit of the Ministry of Information and Media.
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