By Admire Chitsungo
The Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) is set to conduct capacity building workshops aimed at equipping journalists and media practitioners with knowledge on Artificial Intelligence (AI), the use of local languages in journalism and the Freedom of Information Act.
The workshops will begin in Kadoma on Monday 8 June, before moving to Kwekwe on 9 June, Gweru on 10 June and concluding in Bulawayo.
The initiative comes at a time when AI is increasingly transforming newsrooms, content production and information dissemination, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the journalism profession.
Through the workshops, journalists are expected to gain insights into the ethical and effective use of AI tools in news production while maintaining professional standards, accuracy and media integrity.
ZMC said the programme will also focus on promoting the use of indigenous and local languages in journalism as part of efforts to enhance inclusivity, cultural preservation and access to information.
The media practitioners are expected to discuss how local language journalism can strengthen community engagement, improve public participation and help bridge communication gaps, particularly in underserved communities.
The workshops will also cover the Freedom of Information Act, with discussions expected to focus on citizens’ rights to access information, the responsibilities of public institutions and the media’s role in promoting transparency and accountability.
According to ZMC, the training programme is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen professionalism within the media industry and help journalists adapt to emerging digital trends while upholding ethical reporting practices.
Some media practitioners have welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely amid rapid technological changes affecting journalism globally.
Participants are expected to take part in discussions, practical sessions and networking activities during the workshops.
