Brenna Matendere
ZIMBABWEAN journalists specialising in mining reporting who launched an association to ensure a coordinated approach and adherence to set standards, has entered into partnership with the Zimbabwe School of Mines.
Known as the Association of Mining Journalists in Zimbabwe (AMJZ) was officially launched in Harare recently and is led by broadcaster Tafadzwa Dube.
Today Dube Told The NewsHawks that in a positive development, the AMJZ has partnered the Zimbabwe School of Mines in a deal that will see journalists in the association going through a marathon one week training on mining reporting
“The AMJZ is dedicated to fostering excellence in journalism, particularly within the mining sector and it is against this background that a training will be held by the Zimbabwe School of Mines to impart enhanced knowledge on mining reporting for our members,” said Dube.
Engineer Edwin Gwaze, Principal of the Zimbabwe School of Mines, shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration. “We are delighted to contribute to the development of top-tier mining journalists who will keep the nation well-informed about the mining sector. As Zimbabwe implements the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS 1), which aims to boost investment in mining and enhance exploration, beneficiation, and value addition of minerals, having knowledgeable journalists is more important than ever.”
Engineer Gwaze also highlighted the tailored approach taken by the institution to meet the specific needs of the journalists. “After engaging with AMJZ, we have created a bespoke curriculum that addresses the unique requirements of mining journalism. Our team of dedicated lecturers is ready to roll out this training and certification program, ensuring that participants gain the expertise they need.”
The collaboration between AMJZ and the Zimbabwe School of Mines marks a significant step forward in addressing the challenges of mining journalism in Zimbabwe. It promises to foster a more informed media landscape, ultimately benefiting all stakeholders in the mining sector. This initiative is set to not only enhance the professional capabilities of journalists but also contribute to the broader goals of transparency and development within the industry.
The training will be held in Bulawayo and leadership of the association are working with various stakeholders to ensure the programme rolls out successfully.
“We had wanted to have the training to be held just a week before Mine Entra but there have since been some changes on that programme which looks like postponed. We are now working to deal with the postponement issue which we had not anticipated,” said Dube.
He added that the association’s primary objective is to equip journalists involved in mining reporting with the requisite skills and indepth knowledge of the sector.
He said members will also tour various sites so that they are well informed on mining operations.
“These visits will offer invaluable insights into the practical aspects of mining. Recognising the global nature of the mining industry, AMJZ will facilitate international tours for journalists to interact with international investors and observe best practices in mining from around the world.”
“AMJZ seeks to bridge the gap between the media and the mining sector by fostering partnerships and collaborations.
“These partnerships aim to ensure that journalists have access to accurate and up-to-date information, thereby promoting transparency and informed reporting.”
The association currently has just over 20 members drawn from print, broadcast and online sectors.
The mining sector is one of the country’s highest foreign currency earners.
