By Prosper Makene
The Tanzanian Minister of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Mr. Paul Makonda, has predged to request the government to allocate between TZS 1 billion to TZS 2 billion to support online journalists in purchasing modern equipment to improve the quality of their content and promote Tanzania globally.
Makonda made this announcement on January 13, 2026, while addressing officials from his ministry at the Government City in Mtumba, Dodoma, during a handover ceremony with his predecessor, Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi.
He acknowledged the significant contribution of young people who have created jobs for themselves through online media, particularly online TV and social media.
"God willing, many young people have employed themselves in journalism, especially through online TV and social media. We will request the relevant authorities to provide funds to support them," he said. Makonda emphasized that the government recognizes the importance of online media in promoting Tanzania's image and culture.
Makonda plans to request President Samia Suluhu Hassan to allocate funds to provide soft loans to online journalists, enabling them to acquire modern equipment and produce high-quality content.
"We will request Dr. Samia to provide TZS 1 billion to TZS 2 billion to lend to online journalists so they can have their own equipment. The goal is to ensure they don't just record with phones, but use modern cameras and computers to produce content that showcases Tanzania's beauty to the world," he added.
The minister's announcement has been welcomed by online journalists and young entrepreneurs who see this as an opportunity to enhance their skills and contribute to the country's development.
"This is a great initiative, and we appreciate the government's support. With modern equipment, we can produce high-quality content that tells the Tanzanian story," said Juma Mwanga, an online journalist.
Makonda also announced plans to establish a special unit for international language communication to prepare and disseminate news about Tanzania to global media outlets.
This unit will focus on promoting Tanzania's culture, tourism, and investment opportunities to the world.
The establishment of this unit is expected to increase Tanzania's visibility globally and attract more tourists and investors. "We want to showcase Tanzania's beauty, culture, and opportunities to the world. This unit will help us achieve that goal," Makonda said.
In addition to supporting online journalists, Makonda emphasized the importance of digital literacy and skills development in the media industry.
"We will work with stakeholders to provide training and capacity-building programs for online journalists to enhance their skills in digital media production and online publishing," he said.
The minister's announcement comes at a time when the government is pushing for increased digitalization and innovation in various sectors, including media and communication.
The support for online journalists is seen as a step towards achieving this goal and promoting Tanzania's digital presence globally.
As the country continues to invest in its digital infrastructure, online journalists are expected to play a crucial role in promoting Tanzania's image and telling its story to the world. With the government's support, they are poised to make a significant impact in the media landscape.
The initiative is also expected to create new opportunities for young people in the media industry, particularly in online and digital media.
"This is a great opportunity for young people to showcase their skills and creativity in digital media. We encourage them to take advantage of this support for young people and contribute to Tanzania's digital business," said Asha, a young entrepreneur.
Makonda's announcement is a significant step towards promoting Tanzania's digital presence and supporting online journalists.
With the government's support, online journalists are poised to make a significant impact in the media landscape and showcase Tanzania's beauty to the world.