— Govt. firmly committed to support vibrant media

Government says it is firmly committed to support and promote the growth of a vibrant media industry in the country.

Information and Broadcasting Services Permanent Secretary Chanda Kasolo says  the State wants to see a competitive, free and responsible vibrant media.

He added that it was government’s desire to see that the media  that plays an active role in the democratic and economic dispensation of the country.  

ZANIS reports that Mr Kasolo said this when he officiated at the tenth anniversary of 5 fm radio station held at Golden Peacock Hotel last evening in Lusaka.

Mr Kasolo said government will support and assist any media institution in the country that wants to expand its operations.

The Permanent Secretary commended 5fm radio proprietor Mateyo Phiri for entering into a partnership with a Chinese Media publishing and broadcasting company in order to expand and improve services.

He noted that the media under the PF government is operating freely and providing adequate coverage to all stake holders.

Mr Kasolo commended the media for providing adequate and fair coverage to all political parties currently campaigning for the January 20, 2015 presidential by-election.

And speaking earlier, Mr Phiri thanked government for levelling the playing field in the media industry.

He said his Radio Station will endeavour to connect the local consumers to the global market and provide accurate information for people to make informed decisions.

Mr Phiri appealed to government to approve 5 fm radio’s request to expand its operations and broadcast to central and Copperbelt provinces.