MISA Zambia in partnership with Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Zambia on Wednesday 30th August, launched the 2023 quarter 1 & 2 of the State of the Media report in Zambia.
The 2023 State of the Media report in Zambia covering the period January to June has indicated that the absence of the Access to Information Law significantly affects citizens’ participation in public affairs and decision-making processes.
Speaking during the launch, MISA Zambia Board Chairperson Fr. Barnabas Simatende reiterated that the lack of the ATI law in the country compromises the quality of democracy in the country as journalists are hindered from publishing information that would promote democracy in the country.
Fr. Simatende says the delay in having the ATI Bill enacted into law has caused journalists in the country to fail to execute their duty diligently by informing members of the public.
At the same event, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Resident Representative Fritz Kopsieker, says the ATI law will enhance investigative journalism thus instilling courage among local journalists and media owners as well as promoting democracy in the country.
The State of the Media Report can be downloaded here.
