ANALYSIS OF COVID-19 REGULATIONS VIS-À-VIS FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION IN THE SADC REGION literacy, media freedom and expanding avenues and platforms for public debate on COVID-19 as it is a matter of public interest. Ultimately, the government restrictions on freedom of expression should be proportionate and necessary. They must be informed by the legitimate aim of protecting public health not arbitrary suppression of free speech. To facilitate the enjoyment of freedom of expression and access to information, there should be universal access to quality and affordable internet. It also essential to strengthen legal frameworks and institutions that promote human rights such as national human rights institutions, and create mechanisms for them to partner with civil society. In executing their responses to the pandemic, governments must be transparent and keep the public adequately informed. https://zimbabwe.misa.org 31