News and press statements
MISA Zambia trains female journalists on Corruption Reporting
The workshop focused on increasing female participation in reporting on critical issues, particularly corruption, which remains a significant concern in Zambia
MISA STATEMENT TO THE AFRICAN COMMISSION ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS ON THE RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION IN SOUTHERN AFRICA AT THE 79th ORDINARY SESSION OF THE AFRICAN COMMISSION ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS
Honourable Commissioners, in 2021, the ACHPR passed Resolution 473 on the need to undertake a study on human and people’s rights and artificial intelligence. I am also cognizant of the ongoing African Union Commission consultative processes on the same, where MISA made formal submissions.
SADC calls on journalists to amplify appeals for regional humanitarian support
“Governments in the region are constrained in their ability to support due to significant economic challenges, including public debt burdens and other social priorities such as the response to the cholera outbreaks, and as a result, the region will soon be
launching a regional humanitarian appeal for support,” he said in a speech read on his behalf by the deputy executive secretary, Judith Kateera.
Botswana President calls for solutions to issues affecting the media in Southern Africa
President Masisi, who was the guest of honour, paid tribute to MISA Regional, MISA Botswana and UNESCO for organising the event, which is now a mainstay on the regional calendar.
Press freedom declines significantly in Southern Africa
However, improvements were recorded in Tanzania, Malawi, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, and Angola. Declines were recorded in Namibia, South Africa, and Zambia.
JOURNALISM IN THE FACE OF ENVIRONMENTAL CRISES
As of April 2024, at least three Southern African countries — Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe — had declared the 2023-2024 agricultural season a state of disaster.
MISA Regional submissions to the AU on the development of a continental AI strategy
MISA Regional has filed submissions to the African Union on developing a continental strategy on Artificial Intelligence. MISA has a model AI Regulatory Framework for Southern Africa from which it predicated its submissions to the continental body.
Now Available: AI Report on Southern Africa
Applications of AI in Southern Africa are in their early stages. Many pilot projects and technology-driven business models demonstrate the potential for AI to benefit underserved populations, better connect local communities and international technology firms, and improve lives.
Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress
There is need for media houses to develop and popularize Gender-based violence policies to protect women in the newsroom while encouraging them to take up leadership roles in media houses