It is with this in mind that MISA Zimbabwe, under the umbrella of the Media Alliance of Zimbabwe (MAZ),
riding on the universal 2020 theme: Journalism without Fear or Favour, commemorated the 2020 event
under the theme: Free, independent & safe media key to access to information for all.
Internet Governance/Freedom of Expression/Access to Information
access to information
While the enactment of the Freedom of Information Act, is a welcome development, there are still
outstanding Bills, that deal with regulation of the media and citizens’ right to privacy, freedom of expression
and access to information, such as the proposed Broadcasting Services Amendment Bill.
However, it is trite to note that, despite the coming into being of this law, the culture and practice of
acknowledging receipt of information requests, as opposed to providing the information sought, is still a
challenge for some organisations.
According to MISA Zimbabwe’s 2020 Transparency Index, targeted institutions do not always notify the
requester when they receive the information request letter, but only acknowledge receipt upon physical
follow-up visits to their offices.
Of the 10 organisations surveyed, the following had no functional websites (at the time the study was
conducted), Chipinge Rural District Council, Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium
Enterprises, and Ministry of Mines and Mining Development.
Although six organisations acknowledged receipt of the information requests, only two responded well to
the requests.
MISA Zimbabwe encourages organisations to effectively use online platforms to disseminate information to
the public. On the other hand, the new Freedom of Information Act, should continuously be evaluated to
ensure it gives effect to Sections 61 and 62 of the Constitution that provide for freedom of expression,
media freedom and citizens’ right to access to information.
Meanwhile, if implemented, some of the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, will go a long way in
giving effect to Sections 61 and 62 of the Constitution which provide for freedom of expression, media
freedom and access to information.

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