MEDIA Liaison Committee member Brighton Phiri has called for an urgent need to protect the field of journalism in the country from non-journalists as well as those that masquerade.

The concerns follow an influx of individuals noted at many events that masquerade as journalists in an unprofessional manner.

Mr Phiri warned that those that are busy masquerading as journalists must desist from doing so noting that journalism is a noble profession.

He emphasised the importance of professionalism as key in the practice of journalism stating further that professionalism and adhering to ethics is the only factor that separates the trained communicators from the untrained.

Mr Phiri has since called on trained journalists in the country to protect the profession, noting that the media plays a critical role in the socio-economic and political advancement of the country.

“Therefore, there is a need for a strong media that is not only united but professional as well,” he noted.

Mr Phiri was speaking on the sidelines of the drafting, Harmonisation and finalisation of Republic of Zambia APRM, National Programme of Action (NPoA) with the National Development plan in Lusaka.