SECTOR 2

apply the learned skills and write an investigative story. Due to a change in the
curriculum, this course has now been incorporated into other courses, and as a
result has become less intensive.
Another reason for a decrease in investigative journalism is the fact that many
newsrooms are under-resourced and understaffed. Some media houses, therefore,
cannot afford to have journalists use the great amount of time and money it takes
to be able to pursue an investigative story professionally and successfully.
Journalists also have to “be extremely passionate” and have a lot of patience and
endurance to go into investigative journalism.

Scores:
Individual scores:
1

Country does not meet indicator

2

Country meets only a few aspects of indicator

3

Country meets some aspects of indicator

4

Country meets most aspects of indicator

5

Country meets all aspects of the indicator

Average score:

2.7 (2013:2.9; 2011:2.7; 2009:2.9;
2007:3.2; 2005:2.5)

2.10 Private broadcasters deliver a minimum of quality
public interest programmes.
Several broadcasters are “trying their best to be relevant” to their audience. There
are some interesting radio productions - Hot FM was named as an example where
pertinent issues are discussed and people are invited to call in to the programme.
People are given a much-needed platform to participate in discussions and air
their views.
Komboni Radio is also seen as catering to the public’s interest with “people
off the street speak[ing] the local language and lingo and talk[ing] on issues in
vernacular.” Other formats came up with innovative ideas, for instance, providing
listeners with the actual prices of vegetables at the market on a given day.

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER ZAMBIA 2017

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Select target paragraph3