Musoni urges media to uphold professionalism

The minister of Local Government, James Musoni, has appealed to the print media fraternity to apply professionalism and follow the laid down code of ethics.

By Jean D'Amour Mbonyinshuti

27 Aug 2012

Musoni, under whose docket media falls, made the call during a meeting organised by Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) which also marked the launch of the Forum for Private Newspapers (FPN)

"Professionalism is not only about knowledge but also good conduct, ethics and dignity. These are all the characteristics of a good practitioner," he mentioned.

He said that media should help Rwandans in rebuilding their country.

"Print media should help rebuild Rwanda; Rwanda has zero tolerance to sectarianism and divisionism. The media should be exemplary and partners in building society."

He further urged journalists to be competitive, creative and innovative.

The president of FPN, Théodore Ntarindwa, highlighted lack of advertisements, high printing costs and lack of a reading culture as the main challenges facing print media.

"Private print media shouldn't be seen as anti-government but a partner in development. Private media should also be able to access government advertisements in order to sustain their operations."

The forum currently has a total of 20 members.

Source: allAfrica