Media Council of Malawi Reaffirms Commitment to Media Independence

The Media Council of Malawi has reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening media independence, accountability, and inclusivity. This commitment comes after the council's participation in the African Media Councils Conference held in Lusaka, Zambia, from 17–18 March 2026. The conference provided a platform for media councils to discuss pressing issues affecting the media industry in Africa.

As a signatory to the Lusaka Declaration on Media Self-Regulation, Accountability, Sustainability, and Information Integrity in Africa, the Media Council of Malawi has committed to defending independent self-regulation. The council emphasized that self-regulation, rather than state control, is essential for ensuring a truly free press. To achieve this, the council will work consultatively to strengthen its legal recognition while maintaining absolute institutional independence.

The Media Council of Malawi has outlined several key areas of focus, including advancing information integrity. The council aims to position itself as a key non-state regulatory force in combating disinformation, promoting transparency, and ensuring access to credible information. Additionally, the council will develop local guidelines for the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence in newsrooms, in collaboration with regional peers.

To enhance public engagement, the Media Council of Malawi will improve the accessibility of its complaints system and increase awareness of its role. The council also plans to promote media literacy among citizens. Furthermore, the council is committed to championing inclusion and equity by addressing the rise of online violence against female and young journalists.

The Media Council of Malawi has also pledged to promote regional collaboration by supporting the establishment of the Southern Africa Press Councils and strengthening coordination through the Network of Independent Media Councils in Africa. This move aims to ensure that local media can withstand global pressures and digital harms.

The council recognizes that sustainability is a prerequisite for media independence and has committed to supporting media organizations in Malawi to develop diversified, sustainable funding models. These models will secure the operations of media organizations without compromising their integrity. The council emphasizes that collective action is required to achieve these goals.

The Media Council of Malawi's reaffirmation of its commitment to media independence, accountability, and inclusivity has been welcomed by stakeholders. The council's efforts aim to shape a resilient, rights-based information environment that prioritizes the truth and provides citizens with access to credible, ethical, and independent information.

Key points

• Media Council of Malawi commits to defending independent self-regulation
• Council aims to advance information integrity and combat disinformation
• Media organizations in Malawi to develop diversified, sustainable funding models