By Charles Mkoka
Dar es Salaam — The much-anticipated launch of
the Journalists Accreditation Board was successfully held today, March 3, at
Johari Rotana, graced by the Minister of Culture, Arts, and Sports, Prof.
Palamagamba Kabudi.
The landmark event marks a
pivotal step towards elevating professionalism, ethics, and integrity within
the media industry in Tanzania.
In his address, Prof. Kabudi
emphasized the board's importance in enhancing journalism's dignity and
respect. “It is an honor to witness this significant milestone that will uplift
the journalism profession and fortify its contribution to national
development,” he remarked.
The board's formation stems from
a directive issued by the President in 2024, aligning with legal provisions to
strengthen the media sector. Ambassador Thobias Makoba underlined the board’s
role in reshaping the media landscape, calling it a game-changer in curbing
misinformation and promoting factual reporting.
Gerson Msigwa, the Permanent Secretary of the
Ministry of Culture, Arts, and Sports, elaborated on the board's objectives.
“This board will serve as a cornerstone for fostering professionalism, accuracy,
and ethical standards in journalism. The media is a critical pillar in the
nation’s development, and this initiative will solidify its role,” he stated.
The Journalists Accreditation
Board will be chaired by veteran journalist Tido Mhando, with members including
Dr. Rose Reuben, Dr. Egbert Mkoko, Mgaya Kingoba, Rodney Thadeus, and Ladislaus
Komanya. Patrick Kipangula will serve as the board’s interim secretary,
overseeing initial operations as regulatory frameworks are finalized.
With offices set to be established
on Jamhuri Street, the board will collaborate closely with the Tanzania
Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) and other government bodies to
fulfill its mandate. Among its key responsibilities are accrediting
journalists, providing professional training, and managing a comprehensive
journalist database.
Addressing the proliferation of
digital media platforms, Prof. Kabudi acknowledged the changing media
landscape. “The rise of online platforms and digital media has accelerated the
need for structured regulation. This board will not only accredit journalists
but also provide ongoing training to ensure they uphold the highest standards
of professionalism,” he said.
The board’s creation coincides
with the government’s 4R philosophy, which promotes reconciliation, resilience,
reforms, and rebuilding.
It aims to equip journalists with
the necessary skills to navigate complex issues while promoting peace, national
unity, and accurate reporting.
Mr. Msigwa highlighted the
growing pool of media graduates, with universities producing approximately 500
journalism graduates annually.
“Over 90% of young journalists entering the
industry hold degrees. This reflects the scale and importance of nurturing
talent to contribute positively to the country’s development,” he added.
As the media landscape evolves,
the Journalists Accreditation Board is expected to play a critical role in
protecting journalists' rights, promoting ethical reporting, and fostering
trust between the media and the public. By aligning journalism with
professional standards akin to those of doctors, lawyers, and engineers, the
board signals a new era for the media sector in Tanzania.
The initiative is set to enhance
journalists' safety, especially during sensitive periods such as elections,
while providing continuous education on Tanzania’s history, culture, economy,
and sociopolitical dynamics.
The board’s commitment to professionalism will
not only strengthen the media sector but also bolster the nation's democratic
processes and development.