The Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) kicked off the new year 2024 with exciting developments as it officially inaugurated its first Regional Office in Bulawayo on Thursday 1 February 2024. This significant move underscores the Commission’s unwavering commitment to the principles of devolution and decentralization, aiming to enhance accessibility and efficiency in service delivery at the regional level.
The ZMC Regional Offices are situated at 14 Centenary Court, Windsor Park Complex, 16th Ave, Bulawayo. The Regional Office promises convenient accessibility for media practitioners in Bulawayo Metropolitan area, as well as Matabeleland North and South Provinces.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, including the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Honourable Judith Ncube, represented by Mrs. Ebesta Lumeli. Mrs. Lumeli commended the Commission for its initiative, emphasizing its alignment with President Mnangagwa’s vision of decentralizing services to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all regions.
In her address, ZMC Chairperson, Professor Ruby Magosvongwe, hailed the establishment of the Regional Office as a significant milestone in line with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and the Devolution Agenda. She reiterated the Commission’s dedication to being more accessible to its clients and stakeholders by bringing services directly to their doorstep. Professor Magosvongwe also revealed that the Commission plans to open four regional offices, stating that the Bulawayo office was the initial step in the opening of the ZMC regional offices that include the Midlands, Masvingo and Manicaland in the current year.
The ZMC Executive Secretary Mr. Godwin Phiri urged media practitioners in Bulawayo Province and its environs to utilize the newly established office. He emphasized that the office would streamline services such as accreditation and registration of media houses, eliminating the need for individuals to travel long distances to Harare for these essential services.
The launch event witnessed the presence of various stakeholders from the media industry in the Bulawayo province, who expressed their excitement and anticipation for the regional office. Media practitioners lauded the initiative, noting that it would undoubtedly simplify their operations and grant them direct access to ZMC services.
