Govt seeks improved dialogue with US Embassy amid past media clashes

The Zambian government has expressed regret over past confrontations in the media with the United States Embassy, saying it looks forward to more constructive dialogue going forward.

Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana, said the government hoped that with the arrival of the new Public Affairs Officer at the Embassy, Naomi Mattos, the two countries will engage in meaningful discussions rather than public exchanges in the media.

Kawana made the remarks when Mattos paid a courtesy call on him in Lusaka on Tuesday.

He said the engagement focused on strengthening bilateral relations and fostering mutual understanding between Zambia and the US.

Kawana also expressed hope that the issue of visa restrictions imposed on Zambian citizens would be resolved amicably.

“The restrictions were imposed despite the Government of the Republic of Zambia agreeing to sensitise Zambian citizens to respect US visa conditions,” he noted.

He further highlighted the importance of the Lobito Corridor, saying with support from the US and other partners, it will provide an alternative route for trade, agriculture, energy, mineral exports, economic development, and regional integration.

Kawana congratulated Mattos on her appointment, saying Zambia values its relations with the US, particularly in the areas of media development, public diplomacy, cultural exchange, and communication capacity building.

In her response, Mattos expressed appreciation for the warm welcome extended by the government.
She said she brings 17 years of experience working for the US Government, including assignments in Ghana and Angola, and looked forward to continued collaboration with Zambia.

“I am eager to see how Zambia and the US can further fortify their alliance. The US Embassy has already done a significant amount of journalist capacity building, and I look forward to building on this foundation,” Mattos said.

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