On June 1st, KAS Media Africa presented to the public, in Maputo, the second edition of the Media Law Handbook for Southern Africa. The event was attended by journalists, lawyers, representatives of political parties and members of civil society. Researched and authored by legal expert and academic Justine Limpitlaw, the book spans 17 chapters. Other countries covered include the Democratic Republic of Congo, eSwatini and Tanzania.
At the launch, the German Ambassador to Mozambique, Lothar Freischlader spoke about the role of media in strengthening and supporting democracy. KAS Media Africa Director Christoph Plate concurred and added that that is why the Konrad Adenauer Foundation has, for over a decade, offered assistance to the project. The second edition, he noted, extended over three years.
Limpitlaw paid homage to journalists in the region, many of who navigate censorship and dangers that are associated with reporting in some countries. “This is exemplified by the disappearance of Mozambican community radio journalist Ibraimo Mbaruco on 9th April 2020. In his last communication, he said he was ‘surrounded by military’.”
The publication is accessible here: Media Law Handbook for Southern Africa (Second Edition)
