By Dumisani Ndlovu
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Zimbabwe Chapter has warned journalists that failure to adapt to artificial intelligence (AI) may render them irrelevant in the rapidly evolving media landscape.
Speaking at the MISA Gweru Chapter AI Training workshop held on the 3rd of September in the City of Progress, Legal and ICT Policy Lead, Helen Sithole emphasized the transformative role of AI in journalism, urging journalists to leverage AI tools to enhance storytelling, improve efficiency, and stay competitive.
“The future of journalism depends on media organizations’ ability to adapt to new technologies, starting with education,” she said. By providing AI training and tools, media organizations can remain competitive in this rapidly changing landscape,’’ she said.
MISA official highlighted AI’s potential to amplify the impact of stories, emphasizing the need for continuous learning to master AI tools and apply them ethically. She urged media houses to pledge their support for promoting and advancing journalism through AI.
The workshop aimed to equip journalists with skills and resources to navigate modern journalism’s complex landscape. MISA has been conducting similar training sessions across the country, recognizing the media’s critical role in Zimbabwe.
However, the official also acknowledged AI’s challenges, emphasizing responsible use and ethical standards. “We must balance innovation with responsibility to ensure AI acts as a positive force in journalism,” she said.
Journalist Kelvin Kasiwulaya noted that AI is already revolutionizing news production, presentation, and distribution. He stressed the importance of equipping journalists with knowledge and skills to use AI responsibly, enabling them to tell powerful stories, investigate thoroughly, and connect with their audience innovatively.
Information Deputy Minister, Honourable Dingumuzi Phuthi recently emphasized the importance of upholding journalism ethics and professionalism while the country is developing an AI policy. He noted AI’s potential to boost efficiency and audience engagement in African countries.
A journalist, who wished to remain anonymous, urged MISA and media houses to continue investing in training programs that equip journalists with AI skills, from automated news generation to real-time fact-checking.
