The Government of Tanzania has announced stronger measures to curb misuse of social media platforms, warning that individuals who spread false information, engage in online harassment, or publish defamatory content will face strict legal action in the 2026/27 financial year.
The announcement was made on Monday, May 25, 2026, in the National Assembly in Dodoma by the Minister for Home Affairs, Patrobas Katambi, while concluding parliamentary debate on the ministry’s budget estimates.
Katambi said the government, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, is determined to ensure that digital technology is used responsibly and does not become a tool for spreading harm, hatred, or insecurity in society.
He explained that existing laws, including the Cybercrimes Act and the Penal Code, already prohibit actions that insult human dignity, spread falsehoods, or incite violence.
He said enforcement will now be strengthened to respond to the growing misuse of online platforms.
Katambi noted that while social media has created opportunities for communication and information sharing, some users have taken advantage of it to deliberately spread rumours, fabricate stories, and damage the reputation of others.
“Some individuals have been spreading false information, insulting others, and creating fabricated stories aimed at misleading the public and undermining trust,” he said.
He further pointed to the growing concern of manipulated digital content circulating online, including edited images and misleading posts designed to distort facts and mislead citizens.
He cited an example of a digitally altered image of a prisoner that was shared with false claims intended to misrepresent correctional service operations.
Katambi said such actions threaten public trust and can create unnecessary tension if not addressed promptly. He warned that the government will not hesitate to take legal measures against those responsible for producing and distributing such content.
He added that the government has already begun coordinated efforts with key ministries, including the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, and the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, to strengthen a unified response against misinformation and online abuse.
According to him, these efforts will focus on improving monitoring systems, strengthening investigation capabilities, and ensuring that offenders are identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Katambi emphasized that the goal is not to limit freedom of expression, but to ensure that it is exercised responsibly and does not harm individuals or threaten national peace and unity.
He concluded by urging citizens to use social media platforms constructively, warning that the government remains committed to protecting the public from digital abuse while safeguarding peace, stability, and respect for human dignity in the country.
