Reflections on the question of media in Zambia: Implications on building peace a case study of MUVI Television

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Date
2016
Authors
Sepiso, Maurice, Sililo
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Zambia
Abstract
The study was investigating the implications of the media on building peace in Zambia using Muvi television as a case study. The study employed a mixed method which combined quantitative and qualitative methods through the use of self-administered questionnaires (quantitative) and in-depth interviews (qualitative). The study identified the role played by the media in Zambia in enhancing peace. The findings of the research indicate that the media in Zambia are polarised especially in the realm of politics. The private media find it difficult to provide an open civic forum for exchange of ideas because they are under government surveillance. The state owned public media is a government mouth-piece and offer no criticism to the government because they are controlled by the state. This has denied the common Zambian credible information on which to base decisions hence, creating tension in society. The study also revealed that Muvi television was the major source of information on peace in Zambia. The study further indicated that poor programming and lack of peace and conflict reporting qualifications among journalists at Muvi television were hindrances to effective peace building communication. The study concluded that improved programming, like introduction of edutainment also known as peace education through drama by Muvi ' television could interest its audience in peace building programmes. This would ultimately assist in changing the attitudes in society towards a culture of peace. Recruitment of journalists who are trained in peace building matters was also recommended as a way to improve conflict coverage by the commercial broadcaster.
Description
Master of Science in Peace, Leadership and Conflict Resolution
Keywords
Mass media and peace--Zambia , Peace-building—Zambia
Citation