The Media Institute of Southern Africa Zambia (MISA Zambia) and the Lusaka Press Club has welcomed the Government’s decision to begin attaching audio or video recordings to official statements as part of efforts to curb the spread of fake news on social media.
MISA Zambia National Director Austin Kayanda describes the move as a step towards enhancing authenticity and credibility in public communication as well as potential to improve transparency if implemented consistently.
Mr Kayanda emphasised the need to ensure that the policy does not limit access to information or disadvantage media houses with limited digital capacity.
“Even when it comes to court cases, the media will be able to defend themselves too,” she stated.
Meanwhile, the Lusaka Press Club President Edward Makayi described the development as a progressive step towards restoring public trust in official communication.
Mr Makayi stated that misinformation has increasingly undermined public confidence and that verified recordings could help reduce the manipulation of written statements.
“Media must learn the use of fact checking tools in case content has been manipulated through Artificial Intelligence applications, especially during this period when Zambia will have general elections,” he said.
Mr Makayi emphasised that misinformation and disinformation will be in the past if the suggestion is implemented.
Stakeholders continue to stress the importance of balancing efforts to fight misinformation with the need to safeguard press freedom and media independence.
Zambia’s weak media need not bother. The yes bwana reporters wouldn’t dare misreport the PIG (Party and Its Government) and risk losing bread and butter.