SECTOR 2

there are plans to transform post offices into ICT centres but this has not yet
happened.
In early 2012 government increased the distribution of computers to schools. The
success of this programme will depend on supply of electrical power and training
for teachers.
The licensing of more internet service providers has had a ripple effect with
connectivity prices becoming more affordable for the general public. The
expansion of the mobile phone network in terms of subscriber base and reach
has vastly increased the communication network and provides better access to
other ICT facilities via cellphones.

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:

2.9 (2010:1.2; 2008:n/a; 2006:n/a)

2.10 Government does not use its power over the
placement of advertisements as a means to interfere
with editorial content.
Government departments and government ministries always advertise in the state
media and very rarely in privately owned publications. Government obviously
does not want to be associated with the independent media.
Government ad spend is not very high and so it is not a tool that could be used
to put pressure on media organisations. A publication would not collapse if
government decided to pull out all its advertising.

34

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER ZIMBABWE 2012

Select target paragraph3