Journalists and media organisations across Tanzania have been invited to compete in more than 40 award categories in the Journalism and Development Reporting Awards (Samia Kalamu Awards - SKA) 2026, following the official launch of the submission process that brings together participants from Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
The submission window was officially opened on May 31, 2026, marking the start of nationwide entry submissions under the annual awards organised through a partnership between the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) and the Tanzania Media Women’s Association (TAMWA).
Speaking during the launch, SKA Chairperson Engineer Peter Mwasalyanda said the 2026 edition has been structured to strengthen professionalism, innovation, and impact in journalism, with participants competing under three main categories: Special National Awards, Media House Awards, and Sectoral Awards.
He said the goal is to recognise journalism that not only informs the public but also contributes directly to national development.
“For 2026, we want to see journalism that is ethical, innovative and focused on solutions that improve people’s lives. These awards are designed to encourage that kind of reporting,” said Mwasalyanda.
The Special National Awards category includes Outstanding National Media House, Outstanding Journalist, and Outstanding Journalist in Clean Energy Cooking, reflecting key national development priorities.
The Media House Awards category will recognise excellence among newspapers, television stations, national radio stations, community radios, and online media platforms that demonstrate strong editorial standards and public service reporting.
The Sectoral Awards will cover a wide range of development areas including agriculture, education, health, water, energy, mining, transport, industry and trade, ICT and innovation, culture, arts and sports, and diplomacy.
Other areas include youth development, environment, finance and economy, politics, governance, labour and employment, law, public safety, and the blue economy, among others.
Organisers said the 2026 edition will feature more than 40 award categories, aimed at increasing competition and encouraging journalists to produce high-quality, impactful stories that support national growth and social development.
Acting Director General of the Journalists Accreditation Board (JAB), Advocate Patrick Kipangula, called on all accredited journalists to take part, stressing that compliance with professional accreditation is a legal requirement.
“All journalists participating must be accredited by the Journalists Accreditation Board. This is not optional. It is a legal requirement aimed at ensuring professionalism in the industry,” said Kipangula.
He also urged journalists to uphold high ethical standards, professionalism, and accuracy in their reporting, noting that the awards are intended to reward journalism that has a positive impact on society.
“Entries should reflect professionalism, ethics, and real impact on citizens. We are looking for stories that inform, educate, and contribute to development,” he added.
According to the organisers, the submission period began on May 31, 2026, and will close on June 30, 2026. Entries are being submitted through the official platform, samiaawards.tz, where participants are required to follow all guidelines and criteria.
SKA has continued to grow as one of Tanzania’s leading journalism recognition platforms, playing a key role in raising professional standards, encouraging innovation, and promoting development-focused reporting in the media industry.
