Africa-Press – Eswatini. Ms Eva Maria Engdahl, who is the Head of Cooperation at the European Union (EU) Delegation to Eswatini, has emphasised the critical role of independent, professional media in sustaining democracy, social cohesion, and human rights, while urging journalists to embrace technological change responsibly.
Speaking at the National Media Awards 2025 held at Royal Villas, Ezulwini, Ms Engdahl lauded the media for its daily work in telling Eswatini’s stories and spotlighting issues that shape public discourse. “Tonight is not only about the honours to be given. It is about celebrating the strong and responsible professionals behind the by-lines, headlines, scripts, and visuals,” she said.
Highlighting the EU’s commitment to media freedom, she stressed that defending free and pluralistic media protects not just the right to know, but society’s ability to make decisions guided by truth and accountability. She pointed to the EU’s partnership with the Eswatini National Editors Forum on World Press Freedom Day earlier this year, noting it aims to invest in the future of journalism through practical engagements on topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and developmental journalism.
Ms Engdahl underscored key EU-supported initiatives: promoting fact-checking, balance, and editorial integrity to combat disinformation; advocating for ethical use of AI, which offers tools for investigative reporting, content creation, multilingual accessibility, and data analysis; and vigilance against foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), which threatens democratic systems, social cohesion, and security. “Fact- and evidence-based journalism is vital to ensure citizens, including emaSwati, access credible information to make informed choices,” she said.
She further highlighted the media’s role in advancing human development and social inclusion. Accurate reporting on EU programmes such as Erasmus+, TVET, skills development, and youth empowerment initiatives helps open doors for young people and marginalised communities, giving them a voice and life-changing opportunities.
While recognising the potential of technology to support journalism, Ms Engdahl reminded attendees that it cannot replace human judgment, ethical responsibility, and lived experience. “Trust rests with people, not platforms,” she said.
Concluding her remarks, she congratulated all nominees, emphasising that whether or not they receive an award, their work, skills, and voices remain vital in shaping Eswatini’s public conversation and development. She also wished attendees a joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year.
“The EU remains committed to supporting the media sector in Eswatini through capacity building, dialogue, and innovation,” she said, calling for continued championing of truth and empowerment of voices across the nation.
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