The Centre for Human Rights (CHR) Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria was honoured to collaborate with Heart and Soul TV(HSTV) in co-hosting the inaugural Southern Africa Media Summit (SAMS), held on 15-16 October 2025 in Harare, Zimbabwe. This landmark event convened a diverse range of stakeholders including journalists, media executives, policymakers, civil society organisations and human rights defenders from across Southern Africa. Together they engaged in meaningful dialogue and collective strategising aimed at strengthening independent journalism and reinforcing democratic accountability.
The summit was held under the theme “Navigating the Crossroads: Strengthening Independent Journalism for Democratic Accountability.” It addressed the multifaceted challenges facing the media landscape in Southern Africa. Central to the discussions were the legal and regulatory constraints, with particular attention to the impact of restrictive laws on press freedom. Economic sustainability also emerged as a concern as financial pressure significantly threatens the viability of the media, particularly independent media outlets. Issues of safety and security concerns were also foregrounded, with participants highlighting risks faced by journalists and exploring strategies to enhance their protection. The summit also explored the implications of the digital landscape for media practice, particularly around the area of digital rights and online freedoms. The summit provided a platform for advancing a free, independent, and resilient media environment in the region through engaging in candid discussions, knowledge exchange and the development of collaborative strategies.
The CHR was represented by Tendai Mbanje and Belinda Matore, from the Expression, Information and Digital Rights Unit. Belinda, delivered opening remarks on behalf of the CHR. In her address, she reaffirmed the Centre's commitment to upholding the fundamental right to freedom of expression and access to information, particularly in the digital age. Ms Matore emphasised the protection of journalists and other media practitioners and underscored the media's role in promoting transparency and holding those in power accountable. Mr. Lloyd Kuveya, former Assistant Director of the CHR, whose dedication to human rights and press freedom continues to inspire the Centre's work, was also in attendance.
The success of the Southern Africa Media Summit was made possible through the support and collaboration of various partners and funders, including Open Society Foundations. Their collective efforts underscore the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in advancing media freedom and human rights in the region.
The Centre for Human Rights remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for and protect the rights of journalists and media practitioners across Southern Africa. By fostering partnerships, engaging in policy dialogue and supporting capacity-building initiatives, the Centre aims to contribute to a media environment that is free, fair, and conducive to democratic governance. The discussions and outcomes from the Southern Africa Media Summit will serve as a reinforcement of the Centre's ongoing work in promoting press freedom and human rights in the region.
