The Minister for State President, Moeti Mohwasa, today hosted a media consultative forum aimed at strengthening ties between the government and the media. The forum sought to address the needs, expectations, and perceptions of both state and privately-owned media in Botswana.
Key Themes of the Forum
In his opening remarks, Minister Mohwasa emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting a vibrant and professional media landscape. He highlighted the importance of media self-regulation, urging practitioners to uphold principles of fairness and impartiality in their reporting.
“It is our wish as government for the media to self-regulate and to exercise fairness and impartiality. A credible media is vital to fostering democracy and informing our citizens accurately and responsibly,” said Minister Mohwasa.
The forum facilitated open dialogue among participants, including representatives from the media, government, and civil society, on the challenges facing the media industry.
Critical Issues Discussed
1. Media Independence and Credibility:
Participants explored ways to strengthen the independence of the media while ensuring adherence to professional and ethical standards.
2. Government-Media Relations:
Discussions focused on improving trust and collaboration between the government and media outlets to enhance transparency and accountability.
3. Digital Transformation:
The challenges of adapting to digital media trends, including the proliferation of misinformation, were also addressed. Stakeholders acknowledged the need for capacity building to help media outlets transition effectively to digital platforms.
4. Role of Civil Society:
Civil society representatives underscored the importance of a free press in holding power to account and fostering public discourse on national development issues.
A Step Toward Strengthening Democracy
The consultative forum was lauded as a significant step in fostering cooperation between key stakeholders. It provided a platform for candid conversations on how the media can continue to play a pivotal role in Botswana’s democratic process while addressing the challenges of modernization and sustainability.
Looking Ahead
Minister Mohwasa reaffirmed the government’s support for media development and pledged to consider the forum’s outcomes in shaping future policies. He called on all stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure a media environment that is independent, accountable, and reflective of Botswana’s democratic values.
The forum ended with a commitment from participants to continue engaging on these issues, laying the groundwork for a stronger partnership between the government and the media.
