SHANNISE DZOBO
MASVINGO – Zimbabwe celebrated both World Post Day and Universal Access to Information at Chivi Growth Point, Masvingo Province on Monday last week.
The event ran under the theme “The importance of online space and universal access to information for a safe and connected future”.
Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Jenfan Muswere in his speech mentioned that the joint occasion underlines the 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 Information 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 (SDG 16) which guarantees public access to information through enhanced use of enabling communication and information technology”, said Muswere.
He went on to say that access to the internet in today’s digital world is crucial for access to information and that is why the government is unrelenting in the provision of affordable Internet in all parts of the country.
“Undoubtedly access to information is now a basic human right just like any other human right”.
He also noted that while access to information has been enhanced, so too has misinformation and disinformation, it is therefore important to be guided by ethics despite being under a constant barrage of misinformation and disinformation.
“Let us refrain from abusing the privilege we have in accessing information and be able to separate the truth from lies. The media is a weapon which should be used responsibly as recklessness could create anarchy and sow seeds of conflict. It 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”.
