MRA CELEBRATES WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY WITH MISA MALAWI

The Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) joined Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) Malawi during the commemorations of World Press Freedom Day in Mzuzu.

The event featured a series of activities, including a Press Freedom March, a Gala Dinner and an Awards Ceremony which honoured outstanding journalists.

MRA presented accolades to three top reporters in the Business and Economic Journalist of The Year category. The three are:

1. Best Business & Economic Journalist of the Year – Print, Bobby Kabango of Nation Publications Limited
2. Best Business & Economic Journalist of the Year – Electronic, Bernadette Chiwanda Mia of Times Group
3. Best Business & Economic Journalist of the Year – Online, Florence Phiri of Platform for Investigative Journalism

MRA has partnered with MISA Malawi in the annual awards of top Business and Economics Journalists to ensure accurate and consistent sharing of tax information since the media is crucial in shaping public understanding of economic issues and promoting tax compliance.

Guest of Honour at the awards ceremony, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Digitalization Baldwin Chiyamwaka, highlighted the importance of responsible journalism, especially during election period.

"The media plays a crucial role in promoting fair and transparent elections. This event serves as a reminder to the media to handle electoral coverage responsibly, ensuring balanced and accurate reporting that empowers the public to make informed decisions and participate effectively in democratic processes,” Chiyamwaka stated.

MISA Malawi Chairperson, Golden Matonga, expressed gratitude to all organisations that partnered with the body to conduct the celebrations.

World Press Freedom Day is observed every year globally on 3rd May to promote and celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom, and to honour journalists who strive to bring accurate information to the public.

BY ALICE MONGORA