The Zimbabwean government is working on a new law to regulate social media platforms amid growing concerns over their unregulated use, which officials say is contributing to misinformation and national destabilization.
Speaking at a Ministers Meet the Media event in Harare yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, said the law aims to enhance governance of social media, a challenge not only in Zimbabwe but across Africa.
“Social media is not properly governed, and this has led to a situation where people are chasing shadows—shadows that have no meaning, shadows run by ghost accounts operated by individuals seeking to demonize their own country,” Dr. Muswere said.
He also criticized some individuals who have shifted from journalism to activism, whom he referred to as “cashvists” and politicians, arguing that they lack proper knowledge of government structures and access to credible information.
The minister emphasized that the planned social media laws will not infringe on fundamental rights but will ensure accountability among users. Similar laws exist in other parts of the world, but many African nations, including Zimbabwe, are yet to establish such regulations.
“Part of our responsibility as a ministry is to ensure that social media is governed effectively. We are preparing new legislation to regulate these platforms and hold users accountable,” he said.
Dr. Muswere also highlighted Zimbabwe’s existing governance framework, which ensures public access to verified information through official government channels, including ministers, commissioners, and permanent secretaries.
He urged journalists to adhere to ethical reporting standards and verify facts before publishing, stressing that the media plays a critical role in achieving Vision 2030, Zimbabwe’s long-term development plan.
To further demonstrate government transparency, Dr. Muswere said the ministry would continue organizing question-and-answer sessions with ministers and media tours to showcase national projects.
“We are a transparent, efficient, and effective government. This tour will provide the media with first-hand access to our achievements,” he added.
