THE Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) has embarked on a nationwide awareness programme on the Freedom of Information Act, in a move designed to empower custodians of public information and strengthen citizens’ constitutional right to access information.
As part of efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance, the ZMC has trained provincial heads in Mashonaland West to spearhead the dissemination of knowledge on the implementation of the Freedom of Information Act.
ZMC Chairperson, Professor Ruby Magosvongwe, said the Commission deliberately began with provincial leadership to ensure information flows down to districts, wards, and villages.
“Access to information is more than a legal obligation, it is the bedrock of trust between government and the people. When public institutions provide accurate and timely information, citizens are better able to make informed decisions, the government earns credibility and legitimacy, and development programmes benefit from public support and participation. In a world where misinformation can spread rapidly, being proactive and responsive in sharing correct information is one of the most powerful tools for safeguarding our national image and unity,” he said.
“As Provincial Heads, you are the custodians of this right at the local level. You are the first point of contact for citizens seeking information about government programmes, policies, and services. This position carries with it a profound responsibility to ensure that information is not withheld unnecessarily, that public records are managed efficiently, and that every request is handled with transparency, fairness, and professionalism. 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. It also enables government institutions to showcase their achievements and service delivery milestones, counter misinformation, and promote national development narratives,” Mashonaland West Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Marian Chombo, “ noted.
Provincial heads have welcomed the initiative as critical in enhancing access to information.
“In agriculture, information is everything. Farmers need timely updates on input distribution, pricing, weather patterns, and market opportunities. In the past, there have been gaps that led to farmers relying on hearsay, which sometimes resulted in losses. What this training has taught us is that, as provincial heads, we are legally obliged to provide that information promptly and transparently. If we fulfil that duty, farmers will be able to make informed decisions that increase yields, improve incomes, and ultimately strengthen food security in our province and the country at large,” Provincial Agritex Officer, Mrs Evelyn Ndoro said.
“This training has been eye-opening for us in the Ministry of Women’s Affairs because access to accurate information remains a major barrier for women, especially in rural communities. Many times, women are left out of critical programmes simply because they do not know where to find information or how to demand it. The Freedom of Information Act empowers us, as custodians, to ensure that policies, opportunities, and resources are communicated clearly. This way, women are not only recipients of development, but active participants in shaping it,” Provincial Head, Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Mr Patrick Rangwani added.
“Local government sits at the heart of community service delivery, from water and roads to housing and social amenities. Citizens constantly seek information on how resources are allocated and projects are progressing. This training has shown us that withholding such information only breeds mistrust. The Freedom of Information Act gives us a clear framework to respond to queries and proactively share updates with the communities we serve. Ultimately, this will help build confidence in our institutions and ensure people at the grassroots level are part of the development process,” Office of the President and Cabinet Deputy-director, Mr Tichaona Chiwiro also said.
The Freedom of Information Act, which replaced the Access to Information and Protection of Privacy Act (AIPPA), is being positioned as a cornerstone for openness and accountability.
Through nationwide training, the government aims to create a culture of transparency that empowers citizens and supports the country’s march towards Vision 2030.
