CHAPTER 5: SIGNIFICANT THEMES threats against both. Recommendations emphasised the need to monitor ethical matters through self-regulation mechanisms, reform restrictive media laws, monitor the application of international instruments, transform public broadcasting, watch digital migration, and approve public broadcasting and community radio laws. Furthermore, this AMB recommended the implementation of codes of conduct as mechanisms for self-regulation, as well as improved training opportunities and support for investigative journalism. 2018 AMB In this AMB, as with the two preceding reports, concerns were raised about the erosion of freedom of expression due to an environment of fear. In addition, selfcensorship, increased cost of media licences, and a decline in journalism quality were highlighted. This AMB did not mention any positive developments and noted Mozambique’s deteriorating general media situation. Recommendations included awareness training about the democratic role of the media among members of state functionaries such as the legislature, judiciary and executive; reform of restrictive laws; introduction of legislation around broadcasting; consultations and review of the media situation in the country; and monitoring the quality of journalism. Namibia 2011 AMB This AMB highlighted several positive developments, including the establishment of the Media Ombudsman, positive changes to the public broadcaster, the Namibia Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), the expansion of citizen engagement through short message service (SMS) and social media, and the digitisation of the country’s media. Negative developments included Sister Namibia magazine’s indifference to lesbian issues and the absence of Access to Information legislation. Recommendations included the need for the Ombudsman's responsibility to extend to monitor the content of advertising, greater media literacy, build a relationship between civil society and mainstream media, promote access to information, and expand media diversity. 2015 AMB The positive developments in this AMB included the increased use of social media, the establishment of the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia, the inclusion of young people in the media, and improvements in the operation of the NBC. Negative developments included lack of protection of confidential sources 35 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER 11 YEARS IN REVIEW