The Journalism Accreditation Board (JAB) has launched a nationwide training programme for journalists, beginning with Bongo FM reporters, in a move aimed at strengthening professional standards, ethical conduct and compliance with Tanzania's media laws.
The initiative, launched on Tuesday in Dar es Salaam, seeks to equip journalists with a deeper understanding of the Media Services Act (Cap. 229) while reinforcing responsible reporting and accountability in news production.
Speaking on behalf of JAB Chairperson Tido Mhando, the board's Acting Director General, Patrick Kipangula, said the training programme is part of JAB's statutory mandate to build the capacity of media practitioners and enhance the quality of journalism.
"We have officially begun with journalists from Bongo FM, and the programme will be extended to other media organisations through both short-term and long-term training courses," Mr Kipangula said.
He said the sessions are intended to strengthen journalists' understanding of the legal and professional framework governing the media, enabling them to perform their duties with greater competence and integrity.
Presenting a session on the Media Services Act, Mr Kipangula said the legislation establishes standards for professionalism, ethics and accountability while providing the legal framework for regulating media practice.
He said JAB would continue implementing the law in a manner that promotes fairness, transparency and respect for media freedom, while ensuring journalism remains focused on serving the public interest.
Mr Kipangula also urged journalists to observe legal and ethical principles throughout the news gathering, verification and publication process, noting that adherence to professional standards protects the credibility of both journalists and media institutions.
Addressing participants on journalism ethics, media scholar Dr Egbert Mkoko said ethical journalism is founded on truth, accuracy, fairness, balance, accountability and the public interest.
He cautioned journalists against allowing the pressure to publish first, the influence of social media, personal popularity or private interests to undermine professional judgment.
"Journalists should always be guided by facts, accuracy and accountability rather than speed or external pressure," he said.
Participants welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely opportunity to deepen their understanding of the Media Services Act and the ethical obligations expected of journalists.
Bongo FM journalists Irene Kilango and Anord Philemon said the training had provided practical knowledge that would improve their reporting and strengthen professional accountability.
"The programme has enhanced our understanding of journalism ethics, legal requirements and professional standards. It will help us better serve the public through responsible and credible reporting," they said.
JAB said the training forms part of an ongoing national capacity-building programme that will be rolled out to journalists across the country as the board seeks to promote higher standards of journalism and strengthen public trust in the media.
