By Tinaani Nyabereka
Harare – Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zimbabwe joined the world in commemorating this year’s World Press Freedom Day which is running under the theme, “A Press for the Planet, Journalism in the face of the Environmental Crisis.”
Influenced by the international theme, MISA Zimbabwe is running with the localized theme, ‘Positioning the Media to Amplify the Environment Story for a Sustainable Future.’
In his speech, Misa Zimbabwe National and Regional Chairperson, Golden Maunganidze said there was need to highlight and advocate more on environmental challenges affecting the community.
“This is a call to action on the part of the media and other critical stakeholders to play our part in highlighting the environmental challenges facing the entire world, Zimbabwe included.
“As highlighted by UNESCO, this year’s theme aims to highlight the significant role that the press, journalism, access, and dissemination of information play to ensure and secure a sustainable future that respects the rights of individuals and the diversity of voices, as well as gender equality.
“The media has a crucial role to play in bringing attention to the urgent need for action to address the environmental crisis. Climate change, deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity are some of the threats facing our planet. It is through the coverage and investigation of these issues that we can raise awareness and mitigate the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation for a sustainable future.
“It is vital for us to prioritize the climate change discourse and draw attention to the unique challenges faced by our communities in that regard. Through positioning the media to amplify the environment story we can foster a greater sense of urgency and mobilize action towards a more sustainable future,” said Maunganidze.
He further added that focusing on local stories and amplifying the voices was also key in the climate crisis.
” Well-researched stories on the environment and clean energy (renewable energy) have immense potential to empower communities to act and hold decision-makers accountable while advocating for policies that prioritize sustainability and resilience for improved livelihoods.
“On the occasion of this year’s World Press Freedom Day, let us recommit ourselves to resourcing and supporting the essential role of the media in addressing the environmental crisis.
“Let us use our platforms to inform, educate, and inspire action towards a more sustainable future for our planet and future generations. Suffice to say, the media cannot run this race alone. This is a marathon that needs all hands on deck.
“Together, we can be the media (press) for the planet, driving positive change and contributing to making a difference in the face of the environmental crisis. We need to work together to save the planet and our environment for socio-economic prosperity and improved livelihoods,” he said.
