Media independence remains global challenge

The independence of the media remains a big challenge for both private and public broadcasters worldwide. This is the view of delegates at the on-going Public Broadcasters International Conference in Maputo, Mozambique.

The conference, which is attended by executives from public service broadcasters, hopes to come up with resolutions on how to protect themselves from political interference. The conference aims to evaluate critical issues that impede broadcasters' daily activities.

It has also been revealed that many public service broadcasters are still dependent on state funding for survival. Most also agree it is about time public broadcasters did something to counter the challenges they face.

Prior to this conference, the Southern African Broadcasting Association held its general assembly. The conference has also re-iterated that leaders of Africa's broadcast media should redouble their efforts to play a role in the fight against HIV/Aids.

Broadcasters have been called upon to produce programmes that reduce stigma, focus on gender relations and the link between poverty and HIV/Aids. The conference ends tomorrow.