Instead of questioning whether the industry is failing, the focus should now be on how it can be strengthened. Consequently, following recent discussions on Botswana’s media landscape, it is imperative that we build on the conversation by directly addressing misconceptions and reinforcing the media’s indispensable role. As previously argued, dismissing the industry as largely unreliable ignores its contributions to democracy, governance and social cohesion. Nonetheless, instead of merely defending its credibility, this article highlights what must be done to sustain trust and effectiveness in an era of increasing scrutiny and digital disruption.
Strengthening ethical journalism and fact-checking is key in maintaining media credibility in Botswana. This is due to the many challenges that the media landscape in Botswana faces, which include the spread of misinformation, limited access to reliable data and economic constraints that impact journalistic integrity. As already demonstrated through recent criticisms that 90% of what the media in Botswana produces in fake news, it goes without saying that without stringent fact-checking mechanisms, there is a growing risk of public distrust in news sources. As such, this makes it imperative to establish independent verification bodies to uphold journalistic standards. Conversely, a key weakness in Botswana's media is the absence of dedicated fact-checking organisations that operate independently from editorial boards and government influence. Compounding the situation is the digital transformation, which has also introduced new challenges in that the rise of social media has led to an increase in unverified content and sensationalist reporting.
While traditional media outlets strive to maintain credibility, misinformation spreads rapidly on digital platforms, often outpacing fact-checked news. Such an environment creates a vulnerability where unverified reports and politically motivated narratives can proliferate thereby undermining public trust. Unlike in Botswana, countries such as South Africa and Nigeria have established fact-checking platforms such as Africa Check and Dubawa, which scrutinise public statements, investigate viral claims and provide well-researched corrections to misleading information. France24 which airs on Botswana Television (Btv), also has a fact-checking segment. These initiatives play a critical role in improving media credibility and ensuring accountability among journalists and public figures alike.
In addition, Botswana’s media industry should invest in digital literacy initiatives that train both journalists and the public on distinguishing credible news sources from false information. In Nigeria, media literacy campaigns are proving to be ideal in educating citizens on identifying disinformation, an approach that could also be beneficial in Botswana. Another pressing concern is the increasing restrictions on investigative journalism and whistleblowing in Botswana. The country’s legal framework poses significant threats to journalists and whistleblowers seeking to expose wrongdoing. Laws such as the Data Protection Act, Cybercrime and Computer-Related Crimes Act, and the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) Act include provisions that can be used to suppress investigative reporting and deter individuals from disclosing crucial information. While its intention is to safeguard personal information, the Data Protection Act contains vague provisions that could be interpreted in ways that restrict legitimate journalistic investigations. Section 56, for example, criminalises the unlawful processing of personal data but without clear exemptions for journalists, it could be used to penalise reporters who uncover sensitive information in the public interest. In contrast, countries such as South Africa have implemented similar data protection laws with clear carve-outs for journalists to ensure that legitimate investigative work is not hindered.
The Cybercrime and Computer-Related Crimes Act presents another challenge. Section 18 criminalises the unauthorised access and disclosure of data, which could be used against journalists who rely on leaked documents to expose corruption. Whistleblowers who often provide such crucial evidence may also face prosecution under this provision. Internationally, countries such as the United States of America have implemented robust whistleblower protection laws such as the Whistleblower Protection Act, which shields individuals who expose misconduct from retaliation. Conversely, Botswana lacks such protective mechanisms, which leaves those who report wrongdoing vulnerable to legal action and workplace reprisals. The DCEC Act as well includes clauses that limit transparency. Section 44 prohibits the disclosure of any information obtained during corruption investigations, meaning journalists who report on ongoing corruption cases risk legal repercussions. While confidentiality is important in some cases, excessive secrecy can prevent the media from holding institutions accountable. In contrast, Kenya’s anti-corruption framework allows for selective disclosures in cases of public interest to ensure that the media can report on corruption without fear of prosecution. Overall, these legal constraints have a chilling effect on investigative journalism and whistleblowing in Botswana. In some instances, sources have been discouraged from coming forward with information.
Consequently, without urgent reforms, the country risks weakening its media's ability to uncover wrongdoing and serve as a check on power. Establishing an independent whistleblower protection body, as seen in countries such as Australia, would provide a secure avenue for individuals to report corruption and misconduct without fear of retaliation. Furthermore, media organisations and civil society must advocate for legal reforms that balance privacy, security and the right to information in a way that does not hinder investigative journalism. In an era where information is power, ensuring that Botswana’s media remains free to investigate and report on critical issues is essential for democracy. Without the ability to expose wrongdoing, corruption and abuse will thrive in secrecy and erode public trust in institutions. Most importantly, strengthening protections for journalists and whistleblowers should not just be a media issue. In fact, it should be a national imperative for accountability, good governance and the rule of law.
THOMAS NKHOMA IS MISA-Botswana chairperson
