The Journalists Accreditation Board (JAB) has reaffirmed that media freedom in Tanzania is alive, legally protected, and firmly enshrined in both the Constitution and national laws. At the same time, the Board has issued a strong call to journalists across the country to uphold professional ethics, responsibility, and accountability in the execution of their duties.
The statement was delivered by Acting Director General of JAB, Advocate Patrick Kipangula, during a live television program, Hatua za Ushindi, aired on Hope Channel Tanzania on March 17, 2026, in Dar es Salaam. His remarks come at a time when public discourse around media freedom, accountability, and professionalism continues to draw attention from stakeholders within and outside the journalism sector.
Speaking during the program, Advocate Kipangula emphasized that the legal framework governing media operations in Tanzania clearly guarantees freedom of expression and access to information. He pointed specifically to Section 7 of the Media Services Act, Chapter 229, which explicitly outlines the rights of journalists and media institutions.
According to him, the law provides journalists with the right to seek, process, and disseminate information, while also guaranteeing citizens the right to access accurate and timely information about issues affecting their lives and communities.
“Media freedom exists and is protected by law. A journalist has the right to seek and disseminate information, and citizens have the right to be informed. This is the foundation of transparency and accountability in any society,” said Kipangula.
His remarks underscore the critical role that the media plays in promoting openness, good governance, and informed public participation. In democratic societies, access to credible information is widely regarded as a cornerstone of development, enabling citizens to make informed decisions and hold leaders accountable.
However, Kipangula was quick to point out that media freedom does not operate in isolation. Rather, it goes hand in hand with responsibility. He stressed that ethical conduct, accuracy, and professionalism are non-negotiable standards that must guide journalistic practice at all times.
He cautioned against the growing tendency in some quarters to interpret accountability measures as suppression of media freedom. According to him, this misconception has contributed to unnecessary tension between journalists and regulatory authorities.
“It is important to distinguish between accountability and suppression. If you fail to adhere to professional ethics, you should not claim that you are being oppressed. Accountability is part of the profession and should not be misinterpreted as a restriction on press freedom,” he emphasized.
Kipangula further noted that some allegations of media suppression arise from instances where journalists or media outlets fail to meet basic professional standards. These include publishing unverified information, presenting one-sided narratives, or using inappropriate and unethical language.
Such practices, he warned, not only undermine the credibility of the media but also erode public trust—an essential pillar for the survival and effectiveness of journalism as a profession.
Beyond addressing concerns about media freedom, Kipangula also highlighted ongoing efforts by the government to improve the regulatory and operational environment for the media sector. He pointed to significant legal and policy reforms that have been implemented in recent years, aimed at creating a more enabling environment for journalists and media organizations.
Among these reforms is the repeal of the former Newspapers Act, which had long been criticized by stakeholders as restrictive, and its replacement with the Media Services Act. The new law, he explained, is designed to promote a balance between freedom, accountability, and professionalism within the media landscape.
“These reforms have introduced a new direction that allows journalists and media houses to operate with greater freedom, while still adhering to acceptable professional and legal standards,” he said.
The shift in the legal framework is widely seen as part of broader efforts to modernize Tanzania’s media sector and align it with international best practices. By strengthening legal protections while emphasizing accountability, the reforms aim to foster a more vibrant, credible, and responsible media ecosystem.
Kipangula also used the platform to call on journalists to take an active role in safeguarding the integrity of their profession. He urged media practitioners to prioritize truth, accuracy, and balance in their reporting, noting that these principles are essential for maintaining public confidence.
In an era characterized by the rapid spread of information—often through digital and social media platforms—the need for responsible journalism has become even more critical. False or misleading information can spread quickly, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, institutions, and society at large.
As such, Kipangula emphasized that journalists must remain vigilant and committed to verifying information before publication, ensuring that their work contributes positively to public discourse rather than fueling misinformation.
He also reminded journalists of their obligation to respect the public’s right to access accurate and timely information, as stipulated in the Access to Information Act. This, he noted, is not only a legal requirement but also a moral responsibility that lies at the heart of journalism.
In addition to addressing journalists, Kipangula extended his message to media owners and employers across the country. He stressed the importance of investing in qualified personnel and ensuring that only accredited journalists are entrusted with reporting responsibilities.
According to him, the presence of skilled and certified professionals within media organizations is key to maintaining high standards of journalism and protecting the credibility of the industry.
“Employers must ensure that they engage qualified professionals in their management teams and utilize accredited journalists in all journalistic functions. This is essential for safeguarding and adding value to the profession,” he said.
The call for professionalism also reflects broader concerns about the increasing number of untrained individuals engaging in journalistic activities, particularly through digital platforms. While technology has democratized access to information, it has also blurred the lines between professional journalism and informal content creation.
Kipangula’s remarks serve as a reminder that journalism is not just about sharing information—it is a disciplined profession that requires training, ethical awareness, and a commitment to public service.
As Tanzania continues to navigate a rapidly evolving media landscape, the balance between freedom and responsibility remains a central issue. While legal frameworks provide the foundation for media operations, it is ultimately the conduct of journalists and media institutions that determines the quality and credibility of information in the public domain.
The message from JAB is clear: media freedom is not under threat, but it must be exercised responsibly. Journalists are not only beneficiaries of this freedom but also custodians of its integrity.
By adhering to ethical standards, embracing accountability, and prioritizing the public interest, journalists can play a transformative role in shaping a more informed, transparent, and democratic society.
In the end, the strength of the media lies not only in its freedom but in its ability to use that freedom wisely, responsibly, and in the service of truth.
