News and press statements
Spaces of Solidarity analysis of the South African Broadcasting Corporation SABC Bill
The government says the Bill proposes, among other changes, the streamlining of the board of the SABC, which will strengthen its responsibilities and accountability. It also proposes reforms in the SABC’s funding model and the TV licensing system, the government says.
MISA welcomes enactment of ATI legislation in Zambia
On signing the Access to Information Act into law on 22 December, President Hakainde Hichilema said the enactment of the legislation was a major milestone in the media sector and the country, as it would promote access to information by the media and other players.
Concern over exposure of journalists’ personal data on social media platforms and threats to journalists
MISA Botswana is concerned that the dissemination of the journalists’ personal data exposes them to targeted attacks as it has lately been the case with journalists, Kealeboga Dihutso of Duma FM and Kabo Ramasia of the Patriot on Sunday newspaper.
Media development in Zimbabwe: Imperative need to connect the dots
Developments in information technologies are now revolutionising entire facets of life through advances in AI, which requires agility in the government playing a facilitatory role in responsive communication ecosystems in Zimbabwe that speak to the broader league of nations that have since embraced the same.
Presentation by MISA Regional Director Dr Tabani Moyo at the Africa Electoral Justice Network (AEJN) webinar on disinformation and electoral justice
I will start with the theme of the Windhoek Declaration +30 – Information as a public good. With this in mind, we push forward the main argument that electoral management bodies (EMBs), have a critical responsibility as custodians of elections.
Violence against women serious breach of human rights
Resolution 522 highlights that: Digital violence is increasingly gendered and disproportionately affects women, through inter alia threats of sexual violence, misogynistic disinformation campaigns and “revenge pornography…”
Information disorders during elections in Southern Africa
The media, citizens, and governments have a role to play in ensuring the dissemination of accurate and factual information while curbing misinformation and disinformation through regulations, programmes, and awareness.
INTERNATIONAL DAY TO END IMPUNITY FOR CRIMES AGAINST JOURNALISTS (Statement)
A report by Citizen Lab in December 2020 revealed that at least three Southern African countries – Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe – had acquired surveillance equipment from Circles, an Israeli firm.
Reduction in crimes against journalists should spur Zimbabwe to adopt UN Plan of Action
No media violations involving the police or other security arms of the state were recorded during this period. However, on this day, we call upon the police to investigate all reported cases involving the assault or harassment of journalists.