Government has bemoaned the low participation of journalists in regional competitions such as Southern African Development Community (SADC) Media awards competition.
Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana notes that journalists from the private media hardly participate in media awards yet such competitions are open to both private and public media.
The media reports that Mr Kawana says the media are key to disseminating information on SADC to support the process of regional co-operation, integration and development in the SADC region
Mr Kawana has since directed the Department of Press and Media Department under his ministry to come up with strategies that will attract and encourage journalists to participate in SADC awards competition.
The PS who was represented by Information and Media Director for Human Resource and Administration, Bernard Domingo, disclosed this when he officially launched the 2026 SADC media awards.
Mr Kawana noted that even though Zambia did not win any awards in the 2025 SADC competition, he is optimistic that local journalists will walk away with awards in next year’s competition.
And Mr Kawana has reiterated the power of the journalists in promoting regional integration in trade, investment and enhancing democracy in the SADC members countries.
He challenged media personnel to highlight positive stories on innovative, culture, trade, agriculture, energy among other key sectors of the economy.
And speaking earlier, SADC National Adjudication Chairperson Basil Hamusokwe challenged journalists to showcase their skills.
Dr. Hamusokwe, who was represented by his deputy, Mundia Mushoke, said entries are available in photo-journalism, print, electronic; radio and television respectively.
He said journalists can begin submitting their entries till February 28th, 2026.
Meanwhile, a renowned Journalist Sam Phiri, said that the media awards competition organised by SADC are timely.
Mr Phiri, who doubles as Real Times Chief Executive Officer, urged journalists in the country to participate in next year’s SADC media awards.
He however, wondered why SADC Secretariat has not included entries from online media institutions.
Mr Phiri noted that as the world expands its digital space, the media is also expanding its innovation through electronic platforms.
