ZUJ Secretary-General Calls for Ethical Journalism, Stronger Partnerships at Midlands Media Awards
The Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) Secretary-General, Perfect Hlongwane, emphasized the vital role of ethical and responsible journalism in national development during the inaugural Midlands Provincial Media and Journalism Awards in Gweru. He highlighted press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy, urged collaboration between media, government, and business, and commended sponsors for investing in credible storytelling. The event celebrated journalistic excellence while reinforcing the profession’s responsibility to uphold integrity, courage, and truth.
Dumisani Ndlovu 
GWERU – Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) Secretary-General, Perfect Hlongwane, has called for ethical, responsible journalism and stronger collaboration between the media, government and business sectors, describing the profession as central to national development.
Speaking at the Provincial Media and Journalism Awards for Midlands Province, Hlongwane said journalism remains a “calling” that demands integrity, courage and an unwavering commitment to truth.
“Journalism is more than a profession; it is a calling. It demands courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to truth,” he said.
The awards ceremony, held in Gweru, honoured excellence in reporting while also reflecting on the responsibility carried by media practitioners in shaping society.
Hlongwane said journalists play a critical role in giving voice to communities and holding institutions accountable.
“Our journalists are the storytellers of our time. They give voice to the voiceless, shine a light in places of darkness, and hold institutions accountable,” he said.
He underscored the importance of press freedom, noting that it is constitutionally protected and essential for democracy, while urging authorities to safeguard media rights.
“A free and independent media is not a threat—it is a partner in national development,” he said.
At the same time, Hlongwane cautioned journalists to uphold ethical standards, stressing that public trust must be protected through accuracy, fairness and accountability.
He also urged stakeholders to abandon adversarial attitudes and embrace cooperation.
“The media, government and private sector are not adversaries—we are partners in development, nation-building, and telling the story of who we are,” he said.
Hlongwane commended corporate sponsors for supporting the awards, describing their contributions as an investment in credible storytelling and national progress.
He also paid tribute to the ZUJ Midlands executive and adjudicators for organising what he described as a credible and professional inaugural event.
The ZUJ Secretary-General encouraged journalists to continue striving for excellence, regardless of the outcome of the awards.
“Whether you take home an award tonight or not, you are all winners in the service you provide to society,” he said.
He congratulated award recipients, saying their work sets a benchmark for the profession and inspires future generations.
The Provincial Media and Journalism Awards mark a significant step in promoting journalistic excellence in the Midlands, with stakeholders expressing optimism about continued growth in professionalism and impactful storytelling.
