WAY FORWARD The way forward 1. What were the developments in the media environment in the last three/four years? In a nutshell: • The closure of The Post. • A proliferation of media houses. • The rise of the Daily Nation. • Media related news websites were closed down. • The increase of violence especially during the election period. • Momentum around Access to Information has been sustained. • There has been an increase in the victimisation and intimidation of union leaders and media activists. 2. What kinds of activities are needed over the next 3-4 years? • In order to be able to start protecting media practitioners in all spheres, the existence of strong media institutions is necessary. That is why media associations need to be revived and strengthened through accountable processes such as: • the holding of annual general meetings on an annual basis to discuss and make decisions on issues of governance and • mobilisation of resources through membership • ZAMEC needs to be operationalised and start functioning. • Traditional media has to learn to quickly adjust to donor needs to be receptive of funding. A balance between donor wants and media needs have to be found. • Media houses should consider extending their platforms e.g. print media to have a radio station, an online presence, etc. • There is a need for improvement of professionalism which can be pushed by the unions. Professional associations should additionally AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER ZAMBIA 2017 67