The Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC), in partnership with the Media Institute for the Advancement of Indigenous Communities (MAIPAC), has launched a specialized training program to equip journalists in Northern and Central Tanzania with skills to produce high-quality investigative reports on environmental issues.
The training, held today, February 5, 2026, in Arusha, brought together 35 journalists from Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Tanga, Singida, Manyara, and Dodoma regions. The initiative is supported by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Speaking at the opening, THRDC Program and Operations Director, Advocate Halima Sonda, emphasized the critical role journalists play in safeguarding both the environment and communities.
She noted that the world is facing growing environmental threats, and informed reporting is key to protecting citizens and natural resources.
“The aim of this training is to strengthen journalists’ ability to report effectively on environmental issues such as pollution, deforestation, and unregulated mining,” said Advocate Sonda.
MAIPAC Director Mussa Juma, who presented a session on environmental journalism, stressed the link between environmental reporting and human rights.
He revealed plans to train 140 journalists nationwide on topics including climate change, deforestation, pollution, solid waste management, wildlife conservation, and relevant land and environmental laws.
“Through this program, we aim to create a skilled network of journalists capable of producing in-depth environmental reports,” said Juma.
He added that investigative coverage is particularly needed on clean energy, land encroachment affecting indigenous communities like the Hadzabe, unregulated mining, harmful chemical use, and waste management challenges.
Advocate Paulo Kisabo delivered a session on media, land, and environmental laws, highlighting how environmental issues intersect with human rights.
He reminded journalists of national and international laws that protect human rights, the environment, and freedom of expression.
“Journalists should operate within the law. By responsibly using your pen, you can drive national development and safeguard communities,” Kisabo said, stressing that understanding legal frameworks benefits journalists as much as lawyers.
The training in Arusha will continue in the coming days and will later expand to other regions across Tanzania.