Developments since 2009 and the way forward Positive developments in the media environment in the past two years: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. The rise of new community radio stations. ZAMEC, although it is not yet launched, the process has begun to form a new, inclusive self-regulatory body for the media. The adoption of the ICT Act. The National Media Policy is being reviewed and circulated to stakeholders. There is increased dialogue between the media and the government, opening up an entry point to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Services. Slightly improved relations between the media and political parties. Rejection/stalling of Constitutional Bill of Rights: offers the fresh opportunity for more debate and an overhaul of the Bill of Rights, considered by some to be “flawed from the start”. Broadcast media have been given licences by the state to extend their range of transmission. (ZNBC 2 now in Livingstone, while Muvi TV has expanded to reach Livingstone and the Copper Belt. Muvi TV also has a new channel, Africa Unite.) Negative developments in the media environment in the past two years: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Amendments to the IBA Act and the ZNBC Act from 2002 have still not been passed, after nine years. A 2010 amendment to the ZNBC Act has also not been passed, but it represents a narrowing of the space for independence by the state broadcaster Harassment of journalists continues, especially by those supporting the state. Closure of Radio Lyambai and the forceful dismantling of this community radio station’s equipment. The polarisation of the media (private/state) is getting worse. The bickering that takes place between media players “diverts attention of MISA Zambia from organising activities by the media as a whole”. There is no self-regulatory media council and no code of ethics for the Zambian media. The lack of proper co-operation between civil society and the media. The Freedom of Information Bill appears to have been completely shelved by government. AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER ZAMBIA 2011 67