CHINHOYI, Jun. 24 (NewsDay Live) — The Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) has launched a journalist training programme focused on the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI), access to information and indigenous language reporting as part of efforts to combat misinformation and improve public access to news.
The workshop, underway in Chinhoyi, has drawn journalists from state-owned and private media organisations, including Zimpapers, HStv, NewsAnchor, The Star and CUT FM.
Speaking on behalf of ZMC Executive Secretary Godwin Phiri, Deputy Director for Research, Training and Development Tariro Shoniwa said AI should strengthen, not undermine, journalistic integrity.
“Artificial intelligence can be used ethically in journalism,” she said, adding that the programme aligns with the government’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030), launched in March.
The training also covers the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), equipping journalists with skills to access public information legally and use AI tools responsibly to analyse and process data.
A key focus of the workshop is promoting the use of Zimbabwe’s 16 official languages in digital and mainstream media. Participants are being trained to use AI-powered translation and voice-to-text tools to broaden access to information, particularly in underserved communities.
ZMC said freedom of information could not be fully realised if critical news remained accessible only in English.
The workshop brings together journalists from mainstream, community and campus media, with participants receiving training on emerging technologies, information access laws and multilingual reporting.
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Participants welcomed the initiative, saying the combination of FOIA knowledge and AI tools would improve newsroom efficiency while helping make news more accessible and relevant to local communities.
