By Petronella Sibeene WINDHOEK The business community in the country has called on the media to prioritise business and economic stories that would serve as a catalyst in finding solutions to Namibia’s economic challenges. Currently, the media in the country seem to prioritise political stories while business and economic stories do not seem to feature prominently in the daily news reports, says Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NCCI)’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tarah Shaanika. Shaanika, who was speaking on the day of the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on Wednesday urged the media to strongly consider this beat as well and produce reports that contain sufficient details that would arouse public debates about solutions that would possibly accelerate the eradication of poverty. The business captain further indicated that the Small and Medium Entrepreneurs (SMEs) sector has potential to contribute to the economic wellbeing of the country and the media have a role to play in exposing some weaknesses in the policies and legislations that might hinder the promotion of this sector to its maximum. “There are numerous business activities in the lives of the poor and the ignored, especially in the SME sector. I believe that the success of our economy will be determined by … the manner in which and the pace at which we grow and diversify our SME sector,” he stated. Shaanika called on the media to report on SME activities to make the sector competitive and vibrant. He added that the media is a key partner in the fight against poverty and backwardness. “It is a key partner in the struggle for higher economic growth and job creation … a partner in the promotion and marketing of our country as a preferred destination for investments and tourists.” Press freedom is vital to the business community as it creates an atmosphere for justice and fairness, he said. The NCCI CEO commended the media in Namibia for educating the masses about their political and civil rights.