The Chairman of Tanzania’s Journalists Accreditation Board, Mr. Tido Mhando, has urged journalists across the country to reassess their professional responsibility in shaping society through informative and development-oriented reporting, warning that the media risks losing its influence if it fails to produce impactful content.
Speaking in Dar es Salaam, Mr. Mhando said journalism remains a powerful tool in building public awareness, influencing attitudes and supporting national development, but noted that many media platforms are increasingly moving away from thought-provoking and educational reporting.
He said the country needs journalists who are capable of producing content that promotes critical thinking, accountability and social progress.
“When we look at some of our newspapers, radio and television stations today, the amount of content that stimulates deeper thinking has significantly declined. Journalists should ask themselves whether this is the image they want to leave in Tanzanian society,” he said.
Mr. Mhando stressed that the media has a major responsibility in guiding public opinion and safeguarding national interests, adding that the profession must continue to uphold ethical standards and professionalism.
He explained that the Board continues to supervise the accreditation of journalists based on legal and academic qualifications, including the requirement for journalists to possess at least a diploma qualification.
However, he noted that academic qualifications alone are not enough, calling for continuous professional training to strengthen journalists’ skills in reporting, analysis and content production.
“We are ensuring that journalists who receive accreditation meet the required educational standards, but we also want them to continue building their professional capacity through regular training,” he said.
Mr. Mhando further called on media stakeholders to reflect on the type of content currently dominating news platforms, saying the media should focus more on stories that educate, inspire and contribute to national development.
He maintained that the future strength of journalism in Tanzania will depend on the sector’s ability to produce credible, constructive and socially impactful content capable of shaping an informed and progressive society.
