Zimpapers Logo

Herald Reporter
Government says it acknowledges the major role played by the media in the coverage of environmental issues to raise public understanding and responses to the pressing environmental challenges facing the country. Speaking at the 16th edition of the Environment Africa/Rainbow Tourism Group environmental reporter awards last Friday, Environment, Water and Climate Permanent Secretary Prince Mupazviriho hailed the media for its extensive coverage of the Hwange ecological disaster where over 100 elephants were poisoned using cyanide.

“My ministry acknowledges the role played by the media during this time in raising awareness on this tragic development. I strongly believe that the mass media is a critical forum to raise awareness, educate and cultivate interest in environmental issues amongst people country wide and globally,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary also noted that the media was a powerful platform for debate and information sharing at local and international level.

“My ministry notes with pride that environmental issues are receiving more coverage both in print and electronic media and we continue to encourage the media to be the environmental watchdog and to educate the nation,” he said.

“We would like to see environmental issues in Zimbabwe moving from the news briefs on Page 2 to making headlines and top story in both the print and electronic media.”

Meanwhile the judges’ report noted with grave concern the quality of entries assessed.

“Most of the articles were found lacking in the most basic of journalistic expectations and in most instances, ethics such as objectivity and authenticity were not recognised at all,” read part of the report.

Walter Chari, a ZBC reporter scooped the overall environmental reporter of the year award while Nelson Chenga of the Financial Gazette grabbed the print media category award.

RTG, Nyaradzo Group and Environment Africa sponsored the awards.