DAR ES SALAAM: The government of Tanzania has called on journalists to uphold professional standards and promote peace, unity and reconciliation, as the country advances its long-term development agenda.
Officials said stability remains central to achieving the ambitions of Development Vision 2050, which aims to foster inclusive growth, industrialisation, job creation and technological progress.
The call was made by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Arts, Culture and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, during a meeting with leaders of the Union of Tanzania Press Clubs (UTPC) in Dar es Salaam.
“Individual development and the national economy largely depend on the state of peace and stability,” Msigwa said, adding that a secure environment enables citizens to engage in economic activity and supports investment flows.
He said journalists play a critical role in safeguarding national values, including unity and social cohesion, particularly in a fast-evolving media landscape shaped by digital platforms.
Msigwa warned that the misuse of global media channels to spread misinformation, hate speech and incitement can fuel conflict and undermine economic and social progress. He urged media practitioners to assess the impact of their reporting and prioritise content that contributes to nation-building.
He also commended Tanzanian journalists for what he described as a longstanding commitment to responsible reporting, noting a national tradition of resolving differences through dialogue.
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The meeting brought together press club leaders, journalists and media stakeholders from across the country to discuss the sector’s role in supporting development priorities.
Kenneth Simbaya, Director of UTPC, said journalists have a responsibility to interpret and promote national development frameworks, including Development Vision 2025, which emphasises peace, stability and unity as foundations for progress.
He added that press clubs can contribute more effectively to national development when supported and well-coordinated.
Separately, Tanzania Police Force spokesperson David Misime said authorities would continue working with other security agencies to ensure a safe operating environment for journalists.
“The safety of journalists is a priority for us,” he said, adding that secure working conditions help ensure timely and reliable information reaches the public, supporting broader participation in economic and social development.
