The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has announced a one-year waiver of licensing fees for journalists launching online news platforms for the first time. These newcomers will be classified as “Amateur” media operators.
The announcement was made by TCRA’s Broadcasting Services Manager, Engineer Andrew Kisaka, during the Annual General Meeting of Media Houses in Dodoma on February 12, 2026.
Engineer Kisaka said the move is intended to give new journalists time to learn and gain practical experience in running online news services.
Previously, aspiring online news operators were required to pay a TZS 50,000 application fee and an annual license fee of TZS 500,000.
The new waiver will remove these initial financial barriers, making it easier for fresh talent to enter the sector.
The decision was warmly welcomed by attendees at the two-day meeting, who applauded the announcement.
The event was attended by members of the Tanzania Bloggers Network (TBN), Tanzania Social Media Association (JUMIKITA), Tanzania Editors Forum (TEF), MOAT, NIBA, Wakongwe RTD, Media Council of Tanzania (MCT), MISA Tanzania, and EACO.
The meeting was officially opened by Deputy Minister of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Hamisi Mwinjuma, on behalf of the Minister, Paul Makonda.