President Samia Vows to Strengthen Media Freedom in Tanzania

 

President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has affirmed that the government will continue to establish policy and legal frameworks to enhance media freedom, ensuring the media operates efficiently.

Speaking today, June 18, in Dar es Salaam while opening the Media Sector Development Symposium and a workshop for government information officers at the Mlimani City Conference Hall, which carried the theme "Building a Sustainable Future in the Media Sector in the Digital Age,"  Dr. Samia stated that the media is not a competitor to the government but a crucial partner in governmental activities.

She emphasized that the media is vital in highlighting the nation's positive achievements, though she noted that some journalists and media outlets have been focusing on negative news that tarnishes the country's image.

She stressed the importance of journalists being patriotic by reporting national news professionally and promoting the country's development.

“When I visit other countries, I receive commendations for the good work being done in managing the media sector, but some journalists fail to see the positive strides made by the government,” said President Dr. Samia.

She explained that a free media touches every corner of the nation, encourages the adoption of new skills, disseminates technological advancements, exposes wrongdoings, and helps leaders receive feedback.

President Dr. Samia mentioned that the relationship between the government and the media continues to improve, noting that international reports show an enhancement in media freedom in the country.

President Dr. Samia expressed sorrow over the incident involving a two-and-a-half-year-old albino child, Asmiwe Novath, who was kidnapped from their home in Kagera and later found dead, with some body parts missing.

The Minister of Information, Communication, and Information Technology, Hon. Nape Nnauye, stated that while Tanzania has not yet achieved the desired level of media freedom, it is in a better position compared to previous years.

He pointed out that this progress is due to reforms in the broadcasting sector's management and the review of policies and regulations, which are based on President Dr. Samia's directives.

"The aim of this symposium is to assess the media sector and strategize our future direction. This is the second symposium of its kind, and it will feature various topics for discussion to reach actionable resolutions," said Nnauye.