The transformation of the Zambian National broadcasting corporation(ZNBC) from a state broadcaster to a public broadcaster
Loading...
Date
2013-08-14
Authors
Gwaba, Frank
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
This work is an attempt at evaluating whether the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation -ZNBC has fully transformed from a State Broadcaster to a Public Broadcaster conforming. This transformation is sought to ensure ZNBC is free from political interference which ends up compromising its independence. That is, as a National Broadcaster, and a Public one for that matter, ZNBC should operate independently under an independent board to ensure all views, whether dissenting or for the government are aired. Further, ZNBC should ensure the citizenry is informed and educated about certain the happenings both, within and outside Zambia. This is one of the profound duties of ZNBC; especially that it has been transformed into a public broadcaster.
Zambia, being a pluralistic state, the national media especially broadcasting, which is the easiest way of transmitting information to the citizens, of which about 60 percent of the population is still ignorant, requires an independent public broadcaster to inform and educate the masses. This should be done independently to ensure that even minority groups are taken care of in information dissemination and this is what is expected of ZNBC, especially under a democratic dispensation like present day Zambia. The state of affairs, however leave much to be desired as far as public broadcasting in Zambia is concerned. The government of the day usually treats the national broadcaster
as an annexure to its political party, frustrating the principles of Public broadcasting. Therefore, it is hoped the politicians in this country can lay off their hands to ensure public broadcasting thrives to the benefit of all.
Description
Keywords
Broadcasting --Law and legislation--Zambia