Media transformation a matter of urgency: Minister Muthambi

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Pretoria - Communications Minister Faith Muthambi says efforts must be doubled to expedite the transformation of the print media landscape in South Africa.

The Minister was speaking at the opening day of the Print Media Transformation Colloquium at Freedom Park in Pretoria on Thursday. The symposium is attended by various stakeholders from across several sectors including media, government, NGOs, academia and civil society.

“The issue of print media transformation can no longer be put on hold. Today’s colloquium is a chance for all of us to move the discussion forward.  

“Today’s colloquium and discussions that are to follow will allow us to jointly deliberate and strategise on ways that will ensure that the media better reflects the views of all South Africans.  

“This colloquium will focus not only on the mechanisms of transformation but also on issues of content and diversity. We view the draft discussion document as a starting point for the important debate around transformation within the media environment,” she said. 

The colloquium, Minister Muthambi said, is an opportunity to broaden the current media offering.

“We need more inclusion and together we can lay the platform for a future where the voice of all South Africans finds expression in our media. 

“These discussions will not be easy. However, I believe there is room for the media and government to engage around a common vision for South Africa and the role that media plays within this.  It goes without saying that we are all patriots, who want to see our great nation flourish.”

Minister Muthambi said government expects the media to be fearless in their reporting and to continue facilitating public discourse. 

“We hope that this fearlessness extends to also driving a narrative that inspires hope in our people.  Our country has made remarkable progress in 22 years and our continued development is unstoppable. 

“I believe that there is room for deeper and more meaningful coverage of our exciting developmental journey. Such coverage would of course not be at the expense of your watchdog and checking function but will rather live alongside it.”

Minister Muthambi said media has had to adapt and change to meet the needs of an information driven society. Despite the many changes, she said the basic foundation of the media remains to inform, educate and perform its vital watchdog role. 

Since 1994, media has shone a light on issues that are vital to the public and democracy.

Freedom of expression and freedom of the press and other media is enshrined in the Constitution, which also protects the freedom to receive or impart information or ideas, freedom of artistic creativity and academic freedom.  

The Minister said government takes these constitutionally protected rights very seriously.

“I can assure you that these freedoms are important to government and that we will continue to nurture and protect them.  Our commitment to freedom of expression and a free media remains steadfast, as is our commitment to a free and flourishing media.

“I can further assure you that government will continue to engage with media and the industry in a spirit of partnership.”

The two-day colloquium will end on Friday. - SAnews.gov.za