Masvingo Hosts FOIA Training Workshop

The Zimbabwe Media Commission held a FOIA training workshop in Masvingo (image source)

The Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) last week spearheaded a high-level training workshop on the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in Masvingo, bringing together senior government officials, local authorities, and provincial heads in a drive to strengthen transparency and accountability in line with constitutional provisions and Vision 2030.

Delivering the keynote address, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Ezra Chadzamira, described the programme as “timely, strategic and essential” in fostering open governance.

“Access to accurate, timely and relevant information is not a privilege; it is a constitutional right enshrined in Section 62 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe. The Freedom of Information Act operationalises this right, ensuring citizens can obtain information held by public institutions while balancing national security, privacy and the public interest,” Hon. Chadzamira said.

He urged provincial and district officials to embrace their role as custodians of information, noting that local structures are the first point of contact for citizens seeking clarity on government programmes.

Commission’s Role

ZMC Chairperson Professor Ruby Magosvongwe emphasised the Commission’s mandate to promote professionalism and accountability in government communications. “The Freedom of Information Act is not a tool for criticism or confrontation; it is a bridge between government and the people. It fosters trust, strengthens democratic participation and empowers citizens to make informed decisions,” she said.

The training, part of ZMC’s nationwide awareness drive, covered FOIA provisions, request-handling procedures, record management, and balancing transparency with confidentiality.

Call to Action

Closing the workshop, Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa, commended the ZMC for its technical and financial support.

“The responsibility to uphold the right to information rests with each one of us. This training should not end in this room; it must translate into a new culture of openness in our offices, departments and agencies,” he said.

Context

The workshop comes as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to align governance systems with the Second Republic’s devolution thrust under the guiding mantra of “leaving no place and no one behind.”