The Journalism Accreditation Board (JAB) has unveiled a legal framework for awarding Lifetime Accreditation to veteran journalists, a move aimed at recognising experienced media practitioners whose contributions shaped Tanzania's journalism profession before the introduction of current accreditation requirements.
The guidelines were launched on Saturday during JAB Day celebrations held at the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports pavilion at the 50th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), as the Board seeks to preserve the legacy of senior journalists while reinforcing professional standards under the Media Services Act.
Speaking through Dr Egbert Mkoko, JAB Board Chairperson Tido Mhando said the framework was developed under powers granted by the Media Services Act, Chapter 229, and its regulations to establish a clear legal process for conferring Lifetime Accreditation on journalists with distinguished careers.
He said the guidelines apply to journalists who were aged 50 years or older when the Media Services Act came into force in 2016 and had already made significant contributions to the profession but did not have the opportunity to acquire the academic qualifications later required under the law.
"The objective is to preserve the history of Tanzania's media industry, recognise the contribution of veteran journalists and ensure that their experience remains part of the country's professional heritage," Mr Mhando said.
He emphasised that the new framework does not exempt recipients from the principles underpinning the Media Services Act or alter the statutory qualifications required for ordinary accreditation.
Instead, it operationalises the Board's legal mandate to honour individuals whose long and exemplary service has had a lasting impact on the development of journalism in Tanzania.
Mr Mhando also commended the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports for supporting the Board's efforts to strengthen professionalism, accountability and ethical standards within the media sector.
Acting JAB Director General Patrick Kipangula described the launch as an important milestone in implementing the Media Services Act, saying it reflects the Board's commitment to balancing professional regulation with recognition of those who helped build the country's journalism industry.
"The guidelines demonstrate that strengthening professional standards can go hand in hand with acknowledging the service of veteran journalists who have served the nation with integrity, patriotism and professionalism," he said.
The launch was accompanied by a stakeholders' dialogue that brought together journalists, regulators and other media actors to review progress in implementing the Media Services Act and assess achievements and challenges recorded during the first year of the national journalism accreditation system.
