DODOMA — Tanzania’s government has urged citizens to use social media and digital platforms responsibly, warning that individuals spreading misinformation, incitement or abusive content that threatens public order could face legal action under existing laws.
Speaking in parliament during the conclusion of debate on the Ministry of Home Affairs budget, Home Affairs Minister Patrobas Katambi said authorities remain concerned about challenges linked to online misinformation, organised crime, illegal immigration and misuse of digital communication platforms.
“We already have laws. Anyone spreading false information, insulting leaders or humiliating others through online platforms will be taken to court,” Katambi told lawmakers in the capital, Dodoma.
The minister said the government’s focus is to uphold the rule of law, preserve national unity and ensure digital platforms are used responsibly without undermining citizens’ rights and freedoms.
“We are not intending to hurt people. Our objective is to enforce the laws, procedures and regulations that we have collectively agreed upon as a nation,” he said.
Katambi described peace and security as a shared responsibility involving citizens, institutions and communities, saying authorities would continue encouraging lawful conduct and civic responsibility across society.
The remarks come as governments across Africa and elsewhere increasingly grapple with balancing freedom of expression and public access to digital platforms against rising concerns over misinformation, online abuse and cyber-related threats.
The minister also urged political parties and public figures to avoid inflammatory rhetoric capable of fuelling tensions or undermining national cohesion.
“Tanzania follows a multiparty democratic system under the Constitution, but if political parties use speeches, statements and publications to incite violence instead of reconciliation, they become a major threat to national security,” he said.
Katambi said the government would continue enforcing laws governing online communications and cyber-related offences, including cases involving online fraud, abusive content and false publications circulated through digital platforms.
He added that authorities had initiated consultations with the Ministry of Information and other stakeholders on measures to address the spread of misleading information online and across media platforms.
On immigration and citizenship, the minister said Tanzania would continue strengthening border security and enforcing legal procedures governing citizenship applications.
Meanwhile, the government said it would continue investing in modern policing infrastructure and digital technologies aimed at improving public security and service delivery, including smart policing systems and expanded digital services within security institutions.
Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ayoub Mohammed Mohmoud said Tanzania’s security institutions remain committed to professionalism, stability and preservation of peace as essential pillars for national development.
