Government Promises Press Freedom Amidst Journalists' Concerns

During the closing ceremony of the World Press Freedom Day celebrations, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa claimed that the sixth-phase government had done a lot to support the freedom and broader interests of the media.

"The government has been committed to protecting the rights of journalists as well as supporting press freedom in carrying out your daily duties," said Majaliwa.

While such statements embellish festivities like these, many journalists do not enjoy the rights or freedoms mentioned by the prime minister.

According to a survey conducted by the civil society organization Twaweza in November 2023, 76 percent said they were not free to report on criticisms of government statements and actions.

The main journalists' association has also documented dozens of cases of harassment against journalists by government officials.

In this regard, journalists surveyed by Twaweza said 56 percent of threats in their work come from public officials at the local government level.

However, attendees of these celebrations are encouraged by the assurances from the prime minister about improving the media environment in the country.

"I am glad that you hear the prime minister or the minister of the sector pledging in front of these journalists. It is good that we carry out our work, and whenever we encounter any incidents affecting our safety as journalists, we speak up immediately," said Ernest Sungura, Executive Director of the Tanzania Media Council.

The hopes of The Source journalist Arusha, Hyasint Mchau, lie in the concept of reminding each other of what can be done even if she doesn't believe something big will happen after these celebrations.

"These celebrations are of great importance because they remind us what the media can do," said Mchau.