Government has urged the media to influence positive improvements in the coverage of agriculture-related news and to advocate for policy and optimum conditions for the success of the industry.
Speaking during the inaugural Zimbabwe Agriculture Media Awards (ZAMA) held recently, Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Climate and Rural Resettlement Vangelis Haritatos said the media should focus on some under-reported sectors such as small grains and small ruminants.
“ZAS has been at the forefront of facilitating developmental programs that are meant to improve livelihoods which include the Shared Value Livestock Revitalisation Project and the Agricultural Sector Survey.
“l believe these awards will strengthen the relationship between ZAS, the media and the cross-section of stakeholders in the agricultural value chain including Government, upstream and downstream supply chains supported by agriculture, agricultural inputs and machinery suppliers, agricultural experts, educational and research institutions, farmers, organisations and farmers.
“l urge all media fraternity to sharpen their pencils and influence positive improvements in the coverage of agriculture-related news and to advocate for policy and optimum conditions for the success of the industry,” he said.
He also urged stakeholders within the agriculture sector to avail quality information to the media to have dedicated space for the coverage of agricultural issues.
“There are so many stories to tell hence the inclusion of a bumper 12 categories encompassing all aspects of agriculture, focusing on some under-reported but important sectors such as small grains and small ruminants.
“Agriculture stakeholders are urged to avail quality information to the media houses to have dedicated space for the coverage of agricultural issues. There are so many untold stories and l hope with the introduction of these awards by ZAS, more journalists will see the value in reporting on agricultural issues,” he said.
Speaking during the same event, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Senator Monica Mutsvangwa said the awards came at the most opportune time when the government is declaring Zimbabwe is open for business mantra.
“The media can bring to the attention of government areas of concern while also disseminating critical information such as the availability of inputs and tackling of plant and animal diseases for the benefit of farmers.
“The awards have thus come at a most opportune time when the government is declaring Zimbabwe is open for business. Agriculture also represents a lucrative line of business which investors local and foreign can consider for an investment, she said.
