Onesmo Ole Ngurumwa of THRDC spoke out against laws like the Cybercrime Act of 2015 and the Media Services Act of 2016, which he believes overly restricts freedom of expression. Photo credit: courtesy.
Tanzania’s Media Freedom Under Scrutiny During Government Reshuffles and Press Reforms
By Adonis Byemelwa
In a notable call for transparency and accountability in Tanzania’s media landscape, the Government Spokesperson and Director of Information at the Ministry of Information, Thobias Makoba, urged media owners to settle long-standing debts owed to their employees.
Speaking on 29th June 2024 at the Freedom of Expression and Media Law conference organized by the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC), Makoba emphasized the critical role of financial stability in enabling effective journalism.
“We understand the economic challenges facing media outlets. While the government addresses its obligations, media owners must prioritize settling debts with their staff to ensure unhindered journalistic operations,” Makoba asserted.
Highlighting ongoing legislative reforms, Makoba outlined initiatives aimed at enhancing media freedoms, including the establishment of a Certification Board, an Independent Media Council, and a fund to support journalists.
These measures, he argued, are essential for upholding professional standards and safeguarding press freedom in Tanzania.
Chairman of the Journalists and Media Workers Union of Tanzania (JOWUTA)
The seasoned journalist (pictured) revealed that a significant majority of journalists in Tanzania lack formal employment contracts, which undermines their ability to work independently and without undue influence.
“We have observed a disturbing trend where many journalists operate without job security or adequate legal protection.
This situation not only compromises their professional integrity but also stifles their freedom to report objectively,” Juma remarked.
In contrast, Onesmo Ole Ngurumwa of THRDC criticized existing laws such as the Cybercrime Act of 2015 and the Media Services Act of 2016, which he argued impose undue restrictions on freedom of expression.
He called for urgent legislative reforms to ensure that Tanzania’s media laws align with international standards and promote a vibrant and unrestricted media environment.
“The current legal framework in Tanzania contains provisions that can be misused to suppress critical journalism and dissenting voices. This undermines our democratic principles and stifles public discourse,” Ngurumwa emphasized.
Supporting the call for media freedom, U.S. Ambassador Michael Battle reaffirmed America’s commitment to advancing press freedom globally.
He announced a financial commitment of $250,000 to support initiatives aimed at promoting media freedom and enhancing professional journalism standards in Tanzania.
Kenneth Simbaya, CEO of the Union of Tanzanian Press Clubs (UTPC), acknowledged recent improvements in the regulatory environment but stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaborative efforts to address challenges faced by journalists.
“Improving media freedom requires sustained efforts to enhance working conditions and safeguard journalists from undue pressures. We commend the government’s recent steps but urge continuous dialogue to ensure these reforms translate into tangible improvements on the ground,” Simbaya stated.
Amidst these discussions on media freedom, recent government reshuffles have sparked controversy and criticism. The dismissal of Information Officer Matinyi Mobhare and the appointment of Thobias Makoba, alongside rumored changes like the potential transfer of Zuhura Yunusu from Director of Communication at the State House to Deputy Secretary in the Ministry of Labor, Youth, Employment, and People with Disabilities, have drawn scrutiny from various quarters.
Critics argue that these moves undermine institutional stability and risk sidelining experienced professionals who have contributed significantly to Tanzania’s media landscape.
“These abrupt changes raise concerns about the government’s commitment to fostering an independent media environment. Removing experienced professionals without clear justification risks eroding public trust and stifling critical journalism,” remarked a prominent media analyst who preferred to remain anonymous.
Internationally, the reshuffles have raised questions about Tanzania’s governance stability and its adherence to democratic principles.
Observers stress the importance of transparent leadership transitions and continuity in policies to uphold media freedoms and ensure a conducive environment for journalistic integrity.
The conference, attended by local and international stakeholders and supported by the American Bar Association’s Rule of Law Initiative (ABA ROLI), highlighted global interest in strengthening media rights and governance in Tanzania.
Within ongoing discussions, Tanzania faces scrutiny over its commitment to press freedom and reforms that uphold democratic values, aiming for an inclusive media landscape.
