Evaluating Government-Media Relations In The Namibian Public Service

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to evaluate government-media relations in the Namibian public

service. This study employs a qualitative design by using two methods of data collection

namely the face-to-face interviews as well as focus group discussions. Data was collected by

means of key informant interview guides as well as focus group discussion guides. The

population of this study comprised of the 23 government Ministries and the country‘s 13 print

media houses. Data received was presented in the form of figures as well as narrative

statements. The study revealed that the attitude of public relations officers towards journalists

in Namibia remains very bad and poor and the journalist from both private and state owned

media house are treated equally by public relations officers because of their common

responsibility of informing the public. Findings from the study further indicated that public

relations officers also prevents journalist from executing their duties of reporting. The study

concluded that government at all levels in Namibia need to establish a coordinating forum

between the government and the leadership of the media. This forum can be used to

straighten out any misunderstandings that arise in the day to day relationships and also start a

new culture of mutual cooperation between journalist and public relations officers.

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