LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi Communication Regulatory Authority (MACRA) this week challenged journalists positive data content that builds the country.
MACRA Director General Daudi Suleman observes that positive data content on Internet, social media attract investors for country’s economic growth.
Suleman therefore challenged journalists to shape the best narrative for the country, saying information has the power to build and to destroy.
He was speaking at then end of three day media workshop on fake news which started on December 12 to 14, 2022 in the capital Lilongwe.
Suleman expressed worrisome over the content found on social media about malawi is sometimes depressing due to sensationalization of issues.
He cited a rumor about short supply of fuel in the country that was making rounds on social media this week which was later deemed fake by the authorities.
“For instance, there was a rumor that the country there will not have fuel, a story which lead many to panic buying. Such is an example that we may see an economic impact on an individual,” worried Suleman.
He however observes that Malawi has a potential to grow, it therefore requires collaborative effort to change the narrative about the country.
MACRA DG added that digital space has the ability to contribute to the country’s GDP, quoting a World Bank report on digital penetration, saying 10 percent of a digital penetration, contributes about 2 percent of economic growth to the GDP.
He therefore called for the general public to start embracing the digital economy space.
On his remarks veteran journalist, Duncan Mulanjila, commended Macra for the workshop saying it will go a long way in countering fake news.
The communication regulator also awarded journalists with certificates of attendance.
Under the theme, “Fake News, Impact and Implications”, MACRA media training attracted journalists from online, electronic (TV and Radio) and print ( newspapers) across the country.