and diversity in the broadcasting sector. Internet penetration levels continue to rise in the country, despite high data costs. Section 26 implicitly relates to the duties of journalists as it criminalises the disclosure of a criminal investigation where an order has been made for confidentiality to be maintained. A major downside of internet access, for journalism in particular, is the proliferation of online “news media start-ups” or blogs that masquerade as news sources, some of which do not practice ethical journalism. Under the act, journalists can be liable to a fine of up to E100,000 (equivalent to just over US$5,000) or imprisonment not exceeding two years, or both, for reporting on the details of a criminal investigation where confidentiality is expected. Such entities have a significant impact in damaging media credibility. This causes mistrust of the media among citizens and further contributes to the spreading of misinformation and disinformation. According to the Act, confidentiality can be stated by law. This clause has the potential to inhibit reporting on high profile cases if confidentiality is mandated by the courts. From a policy perspective, Eswatini needs to do more, especially on gender and media issues. According to a 2022 report by UNESCO and the International Centre for Journalists (ICFJ), 73% of women journalists surveyed, reported experiencing online attacks related to their work (3). Prior to its passing, there was a strong sentiment from the sector, that the aim of this Act is to target journalists who are critical of the state and who reside outside of Eswatini, in particular South Africa-based online publication, Swaziland News, and its editor, Zweli Martin Dlamini. The research also found that 25% of women journalists experienced threats of physical violence, including death threats, and 18% experienced threats of sexual violence. It remains to be seen whether this will be the case, given the provision of extra territorial jurisdiction in Section 31 of the act. In light of these findings, it is critically important to explore the experiences of female journalists for contextually sound strategies and solutions in Eswatini. However, the country’s inability to protect journalists and media workers from attacks and intimidation is an impediment to the diversity and quality of stories being reported as it affects “the kinds of voices we hear, the stories we read, and ultimately the freedom and quality of the societies we live in.” (4) Legal and regulatory frameworks This is an impediment to the diversity and quality of stories being reported. The importance of access to information legislation cannot be overstated as freedom of information plays a key role in supporting democracy. Media pluralism and diversity The absence of an access to information law further hinders the ability of journalists’ to access information from those in public office, as per the mandate of the sector to hold those in power to account. The State’s domination of the media landscape, demonstrated by its total control over the broadcast media, is well documented. However, the passing of the Eswatini Broadcasting Act in 2023 is a positive development that has potential to encourage media pluralism and diversity in the broadcasting sector. Restrictive legislative frameworks such as the Sedition and Subversive Activities Act (1938) (SSA Act) and the Suppression of Terrorism Act (2008) (STA), have been used to curb fundamental freedoms and convict and imprison human rights defenders and journalists. One of the objectives of the Act is to provide for maximum availability of information to the people through the three-tier system of public, commercial and community broadcasting services. More recently, the Computer Crime and Cyber Crime Act, passed in 2022, has the potential to negatively impact journalism in the pursuit of freedom of information. The absence of regulations notwithstanding, it 33 STATE OF PRESS FREEDOM IN SOUTHERN AFRICA 2023