…as he opens public relations crisis training in Siavonga
By Francis Chipalo
Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana has opened a Government Public Relations and Crisis Management Training program in Siavonga District to strengthen the country’s state communication workforce.
Kawana said the program, organized by the Zambia Institute of Mass Communication Educational Trust (ZAMCOM), builds on last year’s training in Livingstone.
Speaking at the opening, Kawana said effective communication is the foundation of good governance, with public relations acting as the link between government and citizens.
“When our communication is clear, timely, and truthful, we build public trust, boost institutional credibility, and empower citizens to take part in national development,” he said.
He warned that communication failures allow misinformation to take root, noting that communication professionals are custodians of public trust.
“In today’s fast-paced, highly connected world, crises emerge without warning. Government communicators must remain equipped, proactive, and ready to respond with accuracy and speed,” Kawana said.
Kawana commended ZAMCOM for its commitment to capacity building and urged participants to apply the skills gained to serve the nation better.
