Media law reform and media regulation
Almost every country in the region, save for Zimbabwe, has private broadcasters. Some countries like Swaziland, Botswana, Lesotho and Zimbabwe have initiated community radio initiatives while they wait for policy and legal reforms allowing community radio licenses.
Community broadcasting
Community media is operated in the community, for the community, about the community and by the community. It is independent, free from political or commercial interference and can, therefore, facilitate public platforms for debate and discussion and promote social agendas.
The reach of community media, particularly radio, means it provides information and a platform of expression to remote, grassroots communities that may not be represented in other media. The main challenges community radio and television faces in the region are lack of legislation, regulation and infrastructure to support the establishment and licensing of community media, and the inability to sustain themselves beyond donor seed money.
Public service broadcasting
Public service broadcasting is created, financed and controlled by the public, for the public. It is neither commercial nor state-owned and is therefore free from political or commercial interference.
Public service broadcasting informs, educates and entertains. It is an essential part of a pluralistic, diverse broadcasting sector.
Media freedom news from our chapters
MISA launches fifth annual state of press freedom report
MISA Regional officially launched the fifth edition of the State of Press Freedom in Southern Africa report on 8 May 2025, a key evidence-based advocacy tool for improving the safety of journalists in the region. The 2025 report was launched at the belated...
MISA Regional Chairperson Jeremias Langa’s Opening Remarks for the Regional World Press Freedom Day commemorations –
MISA Regional Chairperson Jeremias Langa’s Opening Remarks for the Regional World Press Freedom Day commemorations – May 7, Johannesburg, South Africa The Regional Representative of the Regional Office of OHCHR in Southern Africa Ms Abigail Noko Secretary General of...
African Commission calls for guidelines to adapt African media policy to digital era
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) has urged the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa to consult with African stakeholders to evaluate their perceptions of public service content in the modern digital...
End violence against women journalists: A call to action for Southern Africa
International Women’s Day, observed each year on 8 March, should act as a clarion call for what the region must do to empower women and girls, especially in the media. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in hate speech and cyberbullying,...
Southern Africa should intensify fight against online gender-based violence
Southern African governments, civil society organisations and other key stakeholders should develop robust and coordinated strategies to fight the menace of online gender-based violence (OGBV). A survey conducted by MISA Regional in collaboration with UNESCO to...