By Tafadzwa Chigandiwa
Young Journalists Association (YOJA) is set to premiere a documentary as part of its World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) commemorations.
World Press Freedom Day is an annual event celebrated the 3rd of May and the theme of this year’s was “Information as a Public Good” underlining the indisputable importance of verified and reliable information.
YOJA’s belated WPFD commemorations were held virtually with over fifty members in attendance.
Panelists included renowned scholar and researcher Dr Lyton Ncube, Matebeleland South legislator who is also Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Sipho Mokone, MISA Zimbabwe advocacy officer Malvern Mkudu as well as YOJA spokesperson and journalist Leopold Munhende.
In a statement, the youth brand journalists organization stated that the documentary highlights difficulties local journalists encounter in conducting their duties.
“YOJA will this week be premiering a documentary that captures challenges of journalists and the opportunities provided for by new media. We continue to value our members and organizations that have always showed keen interest in supporting the association,” YOJA wrote.
The young scribes’ virtual celebrations sub-themed resolutions on ‘Challenges and Opportunities for the Media 30 years since the Windhoek Declaration’ pointed out to challenges faced by journalists in Zimbabwe.
The resolutions are in line with Section 61 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe which supports the Freedom expression and Freedom of the media.
These include a deliberate campaign for the change of the journalism curriculum to ensure that it addresses the gaps that are there between industry and colleges.
Mobilisation of resources to ensure that young journalists start ups are supported, petitioning the Parliament of Zimbabwe over the continued arrests, intimidation of journalists while conducting their business.
Other resolutions included identifying media partners that push YOJA member’s needs and affiliation to important local and international boards that are in sync with YOJA interests as well as continued use of online platforms to ensure conversations around young journalists interests are cartered for.
YOJA’s WPFD were the association’s maiden celebrations since its formation in 2018.
