LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The British Ambassador to Malawi, Fiona Ritchie has hinted that the United Kingdom (UK) will always oppose all attempts by any state to restrict press freedom, silence debate, abuse journalists, or spread misinformation, whether online or offline.
She said this when she hosted a Green Media on a breakfast at her official residence in the capital Lilongwe on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.
Ritchie added the UK has a long history of helping to build journalistic capacity and promote a vibrant and free press.
She also expressed concern with the rampant cutting down of trees in Michiru Mountain in Blantyre, “It is no wonder there tropical storms and mudslides that lead to the loss of lives, property, and productive assets”.
Ritchie has therefore urged the media to play an important role in continually raising these important issues.
On his part, The Association of Environmental Journalists in Malawi (AEJ) Mathews Malata said this year’s World Press Freedom Day is crucial as it is reflecting on the pivotal role of the media, particularly in the realm of environmental journalism.
The theme of this year is “A Press for Planet: Journalism in the Face of Environmental Crisis,” underscores the indispensable role of the media in addressing the pressing environmental challenges confronting our planet.
“From escalating environmental degradation to climate change, from the flooding of Lake Malawi to unsustainable fishing practices and the exploitative use of natural resources, the necessity for a vigilant and responsive press has never been more apparent,” Malata said.
Source: Times360
