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No Easy Solutions: Zambian Journalism’s ‘Blalizo’ Problem

Oxford: Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism (2023), 18 pp.
"A suggestion by Government to introduce a minimum wage has the potential to ensure that journalists are paid a living wage, making it feasible to start an open conversation about the ethical implications of accepting blalizo [a “transport refund” issued to journalists by the organisers of events and news conferences seeking coverage]. Once that conversation has begun in earnest, a secondary conversation can begin about industry support for eradicating blalizo. Ending the payment entirely may prevent bad actors from abusing the job title for personal gain. But Government and the industry itself will need to undertake a serious nationwide consultation to understand the full implications of all policies before they are implemented, however well intentioned. In the meantime, untrained radio volunteers should be provided with free learning opportunities to ensure they are exposed to industry ethics and norms, and understand the pitfalls and possibilities of the work journalists undertake. I believe it is possible for the media to self-regulate to ensure its freedom from government control, but it will require all outlets to come together – including government-funded outlets. Once this happens, a further conversation can begin about the principles we plan to uphold nationally, the routes to complaint and remedy, and the implications for those found wanting." (Conclusion)
The trouble with ‘blalizo’, 5
Focusing in on ‘blalizo’ in radio journalism, 8
Radio journalists and ‘blalizo’: a survey, 10
Managers and owners weigh in, 15
Conclusion, 18