WAY FORWARD The way forward 1. What were the developments in the media environment in the last two/three years? Positive developments 1. There is more usage of media space by the general public. 2. Private radio stations have become a popular medium but public radio stations have dropped in popularity. 3. There is a considerable increase in the number of people using new and social media such as Twitter, Facebook and blogs. 4. The enactment of the Communications Act of 2012 which introduces four tier broadcasting system. 5. The emergence of new radio stations. Negative developments 1. The Minister of Communications is responsible for appointments on boards regulating the media 2. There is a lack of respect and integrity in the media profession 2. What kinds of activities are needed over the next years? 1. Self regulation: To set up a committee made up of media stakeholders on how to institute media self-regulation - Violet Maraisane, Crosby Mwanza 2. Media Policy and analysis of the Media Policy to be developed and shared widely: Develop civic society position on the Media Policy based on contents and analysis of policy - MISA 3. Work around the 2012 Communications Act: Raise information awareness about the Act - MISA to decide 4. Training - Consolidation of Training: - South African Media 5. Business Reporting, Investigative Journalism, Community Issues - Alliance (SAMA) The meeting took place at Mohale Lodge, Mohale, Lesotho, on 1-2 September 2012. 62 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER LESOTHO 2012