MISA Zambia has hosted a World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) pre-commemoration conference in Lusaka at Mulungushi International Conference Centre. The event brought together Media stakeholders, policymakers, and other members of civil societies to discuss how Zambia’s media can embrace AI while safeguarding press freedom, democratic values, and journalistic integrity.
This year’s WPFD theme is “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media”.
In her address, MISA Zambia Chairperson, Mrs. Lorraine Mwanza Chisanga, described the theme as “a call to action,” urging media practitioners to reflect critically on the opportunities and threats presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI). She emphasized that AI is no longer a futuristic concept but a daily reality already reshaping journalism, from news production to content distribution.
In a speech delivered on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Media, Mr. Thabo Kawana, Director Human Resource, Mr. Bernard Domingo commended MISA Zambia for its continued efforts in promoting a free, independent, and professional media. He noted that while AI is a powerful tool for transforming information dissemination, it also poses risks such as misinformation and manipulation when misused.
As Zambia joins the rest of the world in marking World Press Freedom Day on May 3rd, today’s discussions served as a timely reminder of the complex and urgent task ahead to ensure technology enhances, rather than undermines, the values of free, ethical, and independent journalism.
