Africa-Press – Namibia. As the world celebrates World Press Freedom Day, the government and media practitioners are confronted with challenges facing journalists in the current age.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah cautions the press to remain vigilant in the time of artificial intelligence (AI) and misinformation.
“With the rise of technology and the disruptive potential of AI, the press is expected to inform on the basis of facts and to educate the public, appreciating the critical role it plays in the promotion of good governance,” she says.
In light of the important role the media plays in our democracy, she warns Namibian citizens, journalists in particular, should be beware of unverified information. She says fake news can undermine service delivery, freedom of the press, and democratic governance.
“Importantly, the media as the fourth arm of the government are expected to report and to perform their duties responsibly, objectively and contribute to the development of our country,” Nandi-Ndaitwah states.
The president went on to reaffirm the government’s commitment to ensuring press freedom through legislative measures.
Meanwhile, the Namibia Media Professionals’ Union (Nampu) argues that technology is not the most pressing issue journalists are facing.
“Nampu reminds all stakeholders that the real crisis in Namibian media lies not in technology alone but in the systemic disregard for the rights and dignity of those who produce the news,” says Nampu acting secretary general Jemima Beukes.
She says financial hardship and declining revenue are being weaponised against media practitioners by newsroom executives to silence questions about transparency, fair labour practices, and editorial independence.
“Journalists are expected to carry the burden of newsroom survival while managers refuse to disclose financial decisions, dodge accountability, and in some cases, suppress stories that challenge their interests or those of advertisers,” Beukes argues.
The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology has also weighed in on the issue.
“The government of Namibia is dedicated to ensuring that AI development aligns with international human rights standards, protects media freedom and fosters responsible journalism.
“This commitment is crucial in Namibia, where a free, independent and diverse media landscape is key to safeguarding the right to information and securing the future of journalism in the digital age.”
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