By Jones Gadama
Government has moved to tighten control over misleading media content and community rumours, with two cabinet ministers issuing strong directives during the Community Policing Day event held in Chikwawa on Wednesday.
Minister of Information and Communications Technology Dr Shadric Namalomba ordered media houses across the country to reject advertisements from witchdoctors that spread false information. He said the practice misleads the public, promotes superstition, and undermines trust in both the media and law enforcement.
“Media houses have a responsibility to verify the content they publish. Advertisements that promise quick riches, healing, or solutions through witchcraft are deceptive and must not be given space,” Namalomba said. He added that the ministry will engage regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and protect citizens from exploitation.
The directive came as part of broader discussions on public safety and information integrity during the community policing open day, which brought together government officials, traditional leaders, and residents of Chikwawa.
Speaking at the same event, Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare Mary Navicha urged women to take an active role in promoting peace within households and communities. She singled out the spread of rumours about the alleged disappearance of private parts in the Shire Valley as a growing concern that fuels fear, mob violence, and social unrest.
“Women are custodians of peace at home. I am calling on you to be instruments of calm and truth so that your husbands and children do not fall into the trap of rumour mongering,” Navicha said. She noted that such rumours often lead to attacks on innocent people and distract communities from addressing real security challenges.
Both ministers emphasized that community policing cannot succeed without responsible information sharing and mutual trust. They called on traditional leaders, religious groups, and the media to work with government in dispelling harmful myths and encouraging lawful ways of resolving disputes.
The Chikwawa event formed part of a nationwide campaign to strengthen partnerships between citizens and the police. Officials said similar engagements will be held in other districts to address misinformation, mob justice, and other threats to community safety.
