By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
The Director of the Data Protection Unit at the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), Tsitsi Mariwo, has said the Cyber and Data Protection Act (Chapter 12:07) is designed to strengthen rather than weaken journalism in Zimbabwe.
Speaking during a media engagement and awareness meeting on the Cyber and Data Protection Act, Mariwo dismissed concerns that the legislation restricts media freedoms, arguing instead that it enhances ethical reporting and public trust.
“It strengthens journalism; it doesn’t weaken it,” she said, adding that responsible data handling is now central to credible storytelling in the digital age.
Mariwo outlined practical steps newsrooms should take to align with the Act, beginning with the implementation of clear data protection policies for journalists and editors.
She urged media houses to train staff on lawful data processing, consent requirements and reporting responsibilities to ensure compliance.
She also encouraged news organisations to conduct risk assessments when handling sensitive personal data, particularly in investigative reporting.
Where possible, journalists should anonymise or pseudonymise information to minimise exposure and protect sources.
On the often-delicate balance between public interest and individual privacy, Mariwo said media practitioners must carefully weigh competing rights and document their reasoning when invoking public interest exceptions.
“Accountability is key. Editors and reporters must be able to justify why publishing certain personal information serves the greater good,” she said.
Mariwo further advised media institutions to establish clear incident response protocols in the event of data breaches and to remain updated on both local and international data protection regulations, given the cross-border nature of digital journalism.
Her remarks come amid growing debate within the media sector over the implications of the Cyber and Data Protection Act.
However, Mariwo maintained that far from curbing press freedom, the law provides a framework for ethical, transparent and responsible journalism in an increasingly data-driven environment.
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