Mbabane, Eswatini – May 3, 2024 – The U.S. Embassy in Eswatini kicked off World Press Freedom Day celebrations with a discussion on establishing a media self-regulatory framework. Participants overwhelmingly agreed that self-regulation is crucial for fostering a responsible and thriving media landscape in the kingdom.
The event featured a distinguished panel including U.K. High Commissioner Simon Boyden, Editors’ Forum Chairperson Mbongeni Mbingo, and Senior Information Officer Bongani Mkhaliphi from the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology. Their insightful and eloquent contributions fueled a robust discussion.
The conversation benefitted greatly from insights gained during a recent U.S. Embassy-sponsored tour of the South African Press Council. The knowledge exchange provided valuable context for Eswatini’s quest for media self-regulation.
The event left a sense of optimism among attendees, who expressed their commitment to championing press freedom and responsible journalism. The U.S. Embassy encouraged the Eswatini media industry to build on the momentum and continue advocating for a self-regulatory framework.
“This is just the beginning,” the Embassy said in a statement. “We believe a future where the Eswatini media thrives on independence, accountability, and responsibility is within reach.”
