By Nicodemus Ikonko
Arusha Regional Commissioner (RC), Mr Kenani Kihongosi, has called on journalists to use their profession responsibly to promote peace and unity, as Tanzania gears up for the October General Election.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of a training session for journalists and broadcasters from Tanga, Kilimanjaro, Arusha and Manyara regions last week, Mr Kihongosi stressed that the media plays a critical role in ensuring national stability at all times.
The training was held at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) and was organised by the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports through the Department of Information (MAELEZO) and the Office of the Government Spokesperson, in collaboration with the Journalist Accreditation Board (JAB).
Other partners included the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) and the University of Dar es Salaam’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication (SJMC).
Longido District Commissioner (DC), Mr Salum Kali, delivering the opening speech on behalf of the RC, said the government had created an enabling environment for free and fair elections, citing reforms to electoral laws and media regulations.
He cited President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s move to lift bans on several media houses shortly after assuming office as proof of the administration’s commitment to media freedom.
He further noted that amendments to the 2016 Media Services Act had expanded the sector, which now comprises 375 newspapers, 248 radio stations, 62 television outlets, 355 online platforms and 74 blogs.
Acting Director of MAELEZO, Rodney Thadeus, said the training formed part of a joint strategy to strengthen the quality and effectiveness of election reporting. He emphasised that journalists must guard against the spread of hate speech and misinformation, stressing that responsible reporting was vital for maintaining peace, equality and credibility during the election.
