Nation Online

Macra trains broadcasters

The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (Macra) has said it will train broadcasters so that they understand new trends in the broadcasting industry.

Speaking on Thursday when closing a four-day broadcasting ethics and conflict reporting workshop in Lilongwe, Macra director of finance and administration Ben Chitsonga said radio and TV plays a crucial role in shaping people’s lives; hence, the training.

“Everyday we rely on the media for news and information that shape our views and perceptions on political, economic and social issues.

“As Macra, we will do everything in our powers to ensure that broadcasters are trained to grasp changes happening in the industry,” said Chitsonga.

He said it is the role of government to prescribe the content of programme to the media.

Chitsonga urged broadcasters to report well researched stories and avoid reporting issues that divide people, glorify crime and violence.

Malawi Institute of Journalism (MIJ) executive director Dalitso Nkunika said the training confirms that the media profession is not as easy as it looks.

“Following broadcasting ethics results into improved broadcasting standards which yield credible media because a reliant media is good for development,” said Nkunika.

The workshop, attended by 20 participants, was funded by Macra.