The Sixth Phase Government has reaffirmed its commitment to building a strong, professional and responsible digital media sector by continuing to nurture and empower online journalists and bloggers, rather than regulating them through punitive measures.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday, Government Chief Spokesperson Mr Greyson Msigwa praised the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) for adopting an approach that focuses on guidance, mentorship and partnership with stakeholders in the media industry.
He said the shift reflects the broader philosophy of the Sixth Phase Government, which prioritises engagement and capacity building over sanctions, with the aim of strengthening journalism standards and public trust.
Msigwa described the Tanzania Bloggers Network (TBN) and the Bloggers and Online Content Creators Association of Tanzania (JUMIKITA) as key partners of the government, noting that their growing influence in shaping public discourse makes their role in national development increasingly important.
He stressed that the government, through TCRA, has demonstrated trust in online journalists and bloggers, calling on them to reciprocate that trust by upholding professionalism, ethics and national responsibility in their work.
According to Msigwa, collaboration between the government and digital media stakeholders has continued to improve, enabling both sides to address emerging challenges through dialogue and mutual understanding.
He dismissed claims that online journalists in Tanzania are weak, saying they are playing a meaningful role in informing the public and supporting national development.
Msigwa said since his appointment as Government Spokesperson, he has consistently encouraged journalists to use their platforms to build the nation, adding that responsible journalism contributes to stability, good governance and public confidence.
He explained that the government’s approach is guided by directives from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has emphasised the importance of nurturing online journalists and bloggers to enable them to work effectively in a rapidly evolving digital environment.
Msigwa assured journalists that the government will continue to protect their right to work, stressing that laws, regulations and policies that hinder professional practice will be reviewed and improved where necessary.
He noted that in the digital age, all media platforms converge online, making cooperation between traditional and digital media essential for the dissemination of accurate and credible information.
The Government Spokesperson also commended TCRA for engaging stakeholders on issues related to fees and registration, emphasising that quality and credibility of information remain more important than licensing procedures alone.
He encouraged online journalists to ensure proper accreditation and adherence to professional standards, saying this would strengthen the credibility of the sector.
Msigwa announced that the government, in collaboration with TCRA, is preparing training programmes aimed at enhancing the skills and professionalism of online journalists and bloggers, urging stakeholders to embrace the initiative positively.
On taxation matters, he said discussions would be held with the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) to address concerns raised by online journalists, noting that digital content contributes to the economy in various ways, including promoting tourism and attracting investment.
He further revealed that the Ministry of Information, Culture and Sports has initiated the process of establishing a support fund for journalists, aimed at improving their welfare and capacity to operate sustainably.
Addressing the role of information in modern global conflicts, Msigwa said information has become a powerful tool that can either promote a country’s image or undermine its interests, depending on how it is used.
He urged journalists to ensure their platforms contribute positively to Tanzania’s image and development, warning against the misuse of digital platforms by individuals seeking to harm the nation’s reputation.
Msigwa also called on journalists to defend the integrity of their profession, expressing concern over instances where the credibility of Tanzanian journalists is questioned without response.
He reaffirmed the government’s readiness to continue working closely with online journalists and bloggers to promote ethical, professional and development-oriented journalism in the country.