Information minister Peya Mushelenga told editors, as purveyors of news and custodians of truth, who verify and maintain high ethical standards, that the public relies on the media to present facts accurately.
He also urged media houses to report news responsibly.
Mushelenga ventilated this yesterday during an information engagement with editors of local media houses to improve access to information.
The event was organised by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology.
“In this digital age where information travels across borders instantly, collaboration and responsible reporting are vital.
“We should rise above sensationalism, yellow press and exploitative journalism. We must pursue the truth, wherever it leads us.
“We welcome constructive engagement and open dialogue to strengthen the fabric of our relationship. A vibrant democracy such as ours thrives on diverse perspectives,” said Mushelenga.
The minister insisted government remains committed to uphold media freedom, protecting journalists’ rights and ensuring their safety. Government has made sure that journalists can work without fear or intimidation, he said.
“It is through your voices that our work is amplified,” he said.
Mushelenga also said the regulation of the recently enacted Access to Information Act, which seeks to compel public and private entities to proactively and promptly make information available, are being finalised and consultations will commence when the time is right.
For the current financial year, N$20 million has been set aside to set implementation in motion.
The ministry is also finalising the Data Protection Bill and the Cyber Crime Bill.
On his part yesterday, information ministry executive director Audrin Mathe said the strategic goal of government communication is to deliver world class public service communication which supports government in efficient and effective service delivery.
He said the primary objectives of government’s communication strategy is to, “provide communication to the public about government’s policies, to ensure government is visible and accessible, support effective operation of public services and to ensure the reputation of government at home and abroad.”
Mathe also revealed the ministry is planning to turn the Namibia Film Commission into a fully-fledged public enterprise so that it can reach its full potential.
What is more, to further buttress its commitment to the media, government allocated a combined N$54 million to both the New Era Publication Corporation and the Namibia Press Agency in the national budget. State broadcaster NBC, on the other hand, received N$392 million.