Info minister Muswere officially opens two major global events, condenms peddling of falsehoods

Masvingo-INFORMATION and Broadcasting services minister Jenfan Muswere has on Monday officiated at a major event to commemorate the International Day for Universal Access to Information and World Postal Day.

He has well adapted to his new portifolio after serving as ICt minister and passed the bat to an equally youthful minister, Tatenda Mavetera.

He expressed the need to embrace technological development and online space in line with universal access to information.

Express Mail Zim publishes Muswere full statement here under.

“I am greatly honoured to officiate at this auspicious event running under the theme:

‘ The importance of online space and universal access to information for a safe and connected future.’

“This occasion also underlines that ability of Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies to work together for the greater good and break the silo mentality that has for years inhibited growth. It is indeed heartening to note that the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, the Ministry of Informa tion Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, UNESCO and other stakeholders have put their minds together to belatedly commemorate the International Day for Universal Access to Information and World Postal Day.

” This year’s celebrations come at a time when we are making strides in fulfilling Sustainable Development Goal number 16 (SDG 16) which guarantees public access to information through enhanced use of enabling communication and information technology.

” At local level, the Zimbabwean Constitution, in Section 62 guarantees citizens the right to access information, and I quote “Every Zimbabwean citizen or permanent resident including juristic persons and the Zimbabwean media has the right to access information.”

“Ladies and gentlemen, access to the Internet in today’s digital world is crucial for access to information.

” This is why the Government is unrelenting in the provision of affordable Internet in all parts of the country in fulfilment His Excellency, President ED Mnangagwa’s vision of leaving no one and no place behind.
“Undoubtedly access to information is now a basic human right just like any other human rights.

“The Government is working with key stakeholders in creating an informed nation. It is crucial for us to realise that universal access to information is a cornerstone of development and as a country we are riding on developments in the media landscape.

“These include the operationalization of 14 community radio stations and eight campus radio stations dotted across the country to disseminate information in all parts of the country.
” Ladies and gentlemen, new technologies and digital platforms are increasing and this has enabled quick access to information and sharing.

” Today a mere click of a button simultaneously allows one to access and disseminate information. New communication technologies have necessitated events happening in one part of the world to be felt in another in real time thus enabling citizens to partake in the globalization process.

“Worth noting, however is that while access to information has been enhanced, so too has misinformation and disinformation.

“False information has been peddled across the globe, leading to unnecessary panic and mayhem in the worst of scenarios. It is therefore important to be guided by ethics despite being under constant barrage of misinformation and disinformation.

“Let us refrain from abusing the privilege we have in accessing information and deciphering truth from lies.

“The media is a weapon which should be used responsibly as recklessness could create anarchy and sow seeds of conflict.

“The media should be used to heal the nation and foster peace and indeed be a harbinger of development.

“It is refreshing that we have all, including the media, adapted to the new technological phenomenon by embracing technological innovation in our various spheres of influence.

“It is important for the @media to understand that their role is critical in amplifying our country’s efforts to rebuild, reengage and engage with the international community.

“Let me also take this opportunity to admonish the youths to desist from drugs and substance abuse.

” As Government we are totally seized with fighting the menace and ensure drug peddlers are crushed wherever they are found.

” Ladies and gentlemen, the month of October is largely about commemorating the Anti-Sanctions Day. I therefore upon the youths to join Government in calling for the removal of the illegal sanctions imposed the West and its allies.

“I therefore declare this commemoration officially opened.”