Govt Urged to Sustain Funding for Community Newspapers to Bridge Rural Information Gap
BULAWAYO – Government has been urged to maintain consistent funding for community newspapers and continue printing hard copies to ensure vital information reaches rural communities with limited digital access. Speaking after touring the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services pavilion at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair 2026, Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Media and Broadcasting Services chairperson Vincent Sihlabo said print media remains a critical communication tool for marginalised communities. Sihlabo also visited the stand of New Ziana, which publishes eight provincial community newspapers across the country, including Chaminuka, Ilanga, Indonsakusa, Nehanda Guardian, Pungwe News, Masvingo Star, Telegraph and Times. Sihlabo said community newspapers play a key role in bridging the communication gap between government and citizens, particularly in remote areas. “These publications communicate in local languages and effectively disseminate government programmes,” he said. While acknowledging the growth of digital platforms, he cautioned against a rapid shift away from traditional print media. “We have to embrace digital, but we must not move too quickly and leave communities behind,” Sihlabo said, noting that newspapers are often shared among multiple readers in rural areas, amplifying their reach. He commended New Ziana for continuing to print and distribute newspapers in areas with poor network coverage, describing the model as inclusive and practical. “In areas where connectivity is a challenge, printed copies ensure communities remain informed and connected,” he said. Sihlabo also called on stakeholders and communities to support government efforts to fund the publications, many of which are distributed free of charge. Warning against abandoning print prematurely, Sihlabo stressed the importance of a balanced strategy that integrates both digital and traditional media. “Abruptly phasing out hard copies would exclude vulnerable populations,” he said. Community newspapers in Zimbabwe remain vital grassroots communication tools, particularly in rural areas where access to mainstream and digital media is limited. Published in local languages, they provide accessible information on government programmes, public health, agriculture and community development. Experts say such platforms also strengthen social cohesion, preserve cultural identity and encourage citizen participation. As Zimbabwe modernises its information systems, Sihlabo emphasised that combining digital innovation with traditional print media will be key to ensuring no community is left behind.
Dumisani Ndlovu 
BULAWAYO – Government has been urged to maintain consistent funding for community newspapers and continue printing hard copies to ensure vital information reaches rural communities with limited digital access.
Speaking after touring the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services pavilion at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair 2026, Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Media and Broadcasting Services chairperson Vincent Sihlabo said print media remains a critical communication tool for marginalised communities.
Sihlabo also visited the stand of New Ziana, which publishes eight provincial community newspapers across the country, including Chaminuka, Ilanga, Indonsakusa, Nehanda Guardian, Pungwe News, Masvingo Star, Telegraph and Times.
Sihlabo said community newspapers play a key role in bridging the communication gap between government and citizens, particularly in remote areas.
“These publications communicate in local languages and effectively disseminate government programmes,” he said.
While acknowledging the growth of digital platforms, he cautioned against a rapid shift away from traditional print media.
“We have to embrace digital, but we must not move too quickly and leave communities behind,” Sihlabo said, noting that newspapers are often shared among multiple readers in rural areas, amplifying their reach.
He commended New Ziana for continuing to print and distribute newspapers in areas with poor network coverage, describing the model as inclusive and practical.
“In areas where connectivity is a challenge, printed copies ensure communities remain informed and connected,” he said.
Sihlabo also called on stakeholders and communities to support government efforts to fund the publications, many of which are distributed free of charge.
Warning against abandoning print prematurely, Sihlabo stressed the importance of a balanced strategy that integrates both digital and traditional media.
“Abruptly phasing out hard copies would exclude vulnerable populations,” he said.
Community newspapers in Zimbabwe remain vital grassroots communication tools, particularly in rural areas where access to mainstream and digital media is limited. Published in local languages, they provide accessible information on government programmes, public health, agriculture and community development.
Experts say such platforms also strengthen social cohesion, preserve cultural identity and encourage citizen participation.
As Zimbabwe modernises its information systems, Sihlabo emphasised that combining digital innovation with traditional print media will be key to ensuring no community is left behind.
