STATE OF THE MEDIA IN ZAMBIA uttered the remarks in the meeting held with the Information Permanent Secretary. He further apologised to the Zambian people who he said felt injured by his remarks saying his company was willing to transact with government and that there would be cooperation in order to mend the relationship. MISA Zambia Chairperson, Hellen Mwale, who was present at the briefing, later issued the following statement: MISA Zambia wishes to commend the decision taken by Prime TV to apologise to the government and the general public and further seek dialogue that aims to rebuild its relations following a dispute arising from misunderstandings over the media’s role in COVID-19 sensitisations. Prime TV Proprietor Gerald Shawa tendered an apology to the government and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Services on 23rd March 2020 and says the institution shall work with the government and other stakeholders to publicise sensitisation messages on COVID – 19 pandemic which has affected people at a global stage. MISA Zambia finds the move taken by Mr. Shawa commendable and progressive as dialogue remains key in any conflict resolution process. Government remains a relevant stakeholder in issues surrounding media and development and as such, the move earlier taken by the government to cease relations with the TV station would have disadvantaged the institution as well as its viewers. Equally, government needs the services of the media as a partner in development in order to communicate its plans and other information on development issues and other interventions especially in this critical moment where the country has reported cases of COVID – 19. pg. 13