Diverse, accessible, independent and sustainable media

It is crucially important for the independent media in Southern Africa to receive support.

The Media Programme at NiZA was launched in 2000, working with more than 24 partner organisations in twelve countries from the Southern African Development Community (SADC). It is an ambitious attempt to improve the diversity and accessibility of the media in the region. The primary purpose, however, is to promote the freedom of expression, the quality of journalism and the sustainability of the media.

The partner organisations can be classified into four different categories: freedom of expression, access to information, quality of information and sustainability of the organisation (including financial viability). The organisations involved are national and regional NGOs, commercial and non-profit media, networks, training institutes and companies that work on radio, video and broadcasting productions. Organisations that target new media and the Internet also have an important place in the programme.

Among other activities, the Media Programme supports capacity building in partner organisations and initiates relationships and networks between partners and other relevant parties. NiZA offers such support in the form of:

• Exchanges (South/South and North/South)
• Expertise, advice and coaching
• Facility services and logistics
• Research
• Conferences and workshops
• Training
• Availability of equipment, including ICT equipment
• Production and distribution of special publications and teaching materials