Mwinyi calls for responsible communication
ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Dr Hussein Mwinyi has urged senior government leaders to adopt modern communication strategies and place public interest at the heart of their engagement with citizens, particularly through social media and other digital platforms.
Closing a two-day orientation seminar for ministers, deputy ministers and permanent secretaries from the Union Government and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (SMZ) on Wednesday, Dr Mwinyi said leaders must use communication platforms responsibly, as their public conduct shapes citizens’ perception of the government.
“What leaders post or say in public spaces contributes either to building or damaging the image of the government,” he said, urging officials to exercise professionalism and caution in their online engagements.
The President encouraged leaders to make greater use of both local and international media to provide accurate information on government policies, programmes and their implementation.
He stressed the need for adequate preparation before addressing the public to ensure clarity, credibility and consistency in government messaging.
He said effective communication is essential in promoting public understanding, strengthening trust and guiding national discourse.
However, he warned that communication can also be exploited to spread propaganda, manipulate public opinion and undermine the rule of law, justice and human dignity.
Dr Mwinyi said the seminar had identified several challenges facing government communication, including rapid technological change, the growth of social media, the increasing use of artificial intelligence and evolving global political dynamics.
He added that changing audience demographics, particularly the growing influence of young people, require leaders to adopt more strategic and responsive communication approaches.
The President urged participants to apply the knowledge gained during the seminar to strengthen government communication systems, improve public dialogue and enhance accountability.
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He also reminded leaders that their personal conduct is constantly under public scrutiny and should reflect the values and integrity of the government.
On Union matters, Dr Mwinyi said the seminar had broadened participants’ understanding of the structure, principles and importance of the Union, urging them to promote messages that strengthen unity and cooperation between the two governments.
He noted that the CCM election manifestos for 2020–2025 and 2025–2030 reaffirm the government’s commitment to safeguarding the Union as a pillar of national peace, stability and development.
The President further called for closer collaboration between the Government of Zanzibar and the Union Government to reinforce that commitment.
Dr Mwinyi also commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan for initiating the seminar, describing it as a timely intervention that has strengthened leaders’ capacity to communicate effectively, promote accountability and support the implementation of the National Development Vision 2050.
