Presidential Advisor Dr. Paul Tungwarara has taken the lead in equipping journalists with the tools and skills needed to shape the country’s narrative.
This initiative comes as Zanu PF prepares to name and shame party members accused of sponsoring negative media campaigns against the presidium, labeling them as “sheep in wolves’ clothing.”
The campaign against anti-Zimbabwe propaganda was underscored by President Emmerson Mnangagwa during a meeting with editors from across the country’s media fraternity.
The President revealed that the party has been infiltrated by individuals who, despite wearing Zanu PF regalia, are not genuine members and are actively working to sow discord.
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“We have other people who are in Zanu PF, who in themselves are not Zanu PF, but they dress in Zanu PF regalia. So, you must always see when people talk and see in which camp they belong when they open their mouths,” President Mnangagwa said.
Dr. Tungwarara’s efforts to empower journalists are part of a broader strategy to ensure balanced and positive reporting about Zimbabwe.
He emphasised that while criticism is acceptable, the media must strive to market the brand Zimbabwe to attract investors and foster national development.
“We are not saying journalists should not write negative things about us, but there must be a balance. People must strive to market the brand Zimbabwe.
We are all Zimbabweans, and if investors come to Zimbabwe, that will benefit all Zimbabweans. It will create more jobs for Zimbabweans, and even the media will benefit through advertising,” Dr. Tungwarara stated.
To further this agenda, Dr. Tungwarara is set to meet with journalists to share ideas on advancing Zimbabwe towards Vision 2030.
He also plans to recognize and reward media houses and journalists who have consistently covered Zimbabwe positively.
“We must reward and award such journalists. They have stood with President Mnangagwa, the presidium, and the party at large. This campaign is very good for every Zimbabwean,” he said.
Dr. Tungwarara’s initiative has drawn inspiration from global best practices, particularly Dubai’s approach to media regulation, where positive reporting about the country and its leadership is encouraged, and negative reporting is met with strict consequences.
“We are copying this from Dubai. In Dubai, you are only allowed to write positively about the country and its leadership. If you write negatively, you will be jailed. It’s time for our media to report reality and genuine facts, taking the country forward,” he explained.
However, the push for positive media coverage has also exposed bitter elements within Zanu PF who have been sponsoring journalists to target other members and fabricate non-existent factions.
Sources within the party revealed that these revelations have strengthened unity among genuine members, who are now rallying behind transformative programs like the Presidential War Veteran Fund, which has significantly improved the lives of thousands of former liberation fighters.
Dr. Tungwarara’s bold initiative has not only empowered journalists but also highlighted the importance of a united front in countering anti-Zimbabwe propaganda.
As the country moves towards achieving its Vision 2030 goals, the focus on positive storytelling and internal accountability remains critical in shaping a prosperous future for all Zimbabweans.
The dual approach of rooting out infiltrators and promoting a positive national narrative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering unity, attracting investment, and ensuring that no one is left behind in Zimbabwe’s development journey.
