A regional meeting held in Lusaka from 22- 24 February 2012, discussed also issues of regional integration, mineral resources and their contribution to development, strengthening democracy and Millennium Development goals.
“Members recognised that the media are shaping public opinion, mediating the debate between the state and civil society, but also acting as a watchdog over public processes, against private gain. Free media are a prerequisite to development in the promotion of democracy, human rights and good governance,” reads a Media Institute of Southern Africa communiqué.