SECTOR 2 2.9 Media cover the full spectrum of economic, cultural, political, social, national and local perspectives and conduct investigative stories. Panellists felt that the Swazi media makes an effort to cover a variety of topics, although most of the reporting tends to be event-driven and there is a dearth of analytical and investigative reporting across the board. Most of the print media have a broad range of sections, including business, community, sports and social pages, for example. Radio programmes, through SBIS, cover various topics and interests, but again, the quality is limited in terms of depth. The lack of resources and time also impact the quality of articles. Journalists on daily print publications usually have to meet a quota of three stories a day, and therefore do not have sufficient time to explore issues in depth.. Political reporting is generally not well covered because of editors’ and journalists’ fears of treading on the toes of tradition and the monarchy, and having to face the associated consequences. “There is serious political conflict in this country, but you are not going to find that in the media, only what the tinkhundla says.” Limited access to information also hampers the depth of articles. “How can you write a good article when you can’t get hold of the relevant information?” Publications, like The Nation, attempt to cover some of the more controversial topics. However, the lengthy incarceration of lawyer Maseko and the publication’s editor Makhubu are clear examples of the price that may be paid for being outspoken in Swaziland. Content is also being affected by an increase in advertising and shrinkage of editorial space. 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: 40 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER Swaziland 2014 2.9 (2005: 3.4; 2007: 2.8; 2009: 3.7; 2011: 3.7)