Delicate balance between online freedom, responsibility

DAR ES SALAAM: FREEDOM of expression online has become one of the defining features of the digital age, opening unprecedented opportunities for access to information, exchange of ideas and human connection.

In Tanzania, as in many parts of the world, social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok and Instagram have become central to how people communicate, learn, earn livelihoods and organise their daily lives.

When used responsibly, these platforms support entrepreneurship, strengthen democratic engagement and broaden opportunities for citizens across all age groups.

They allow small businesses to expand beyond geographical boundaries, enable young innovators to monetise creativity and provide ordinary wananchi with platforms to engage in discussions on education, health and governance.

However, as communication experts and regulators increasingly caution, freedom in digital spaces must be balanced with responsibility if society is to fully benefit from technology while avoiding its risks.

The same platforms that empower voices can also be misused to spread misinformation, fuel division and undermine national unity.

In Tanzania, the rapid expansion of smartphone usage and relatively affordable internet access has transformed social media from a luxury into essential infrastructure for social and economic participation.

This transformation has enriched public discourse, increased citizen engagement and opened new pathways for development and inclusion.

Young people, in particular, have embraced digital platforms as tools for self-expression and economic empowerment.

Content creators are building audiences and generating income, while entrepreneurs are leveraging social media marketing to grow businesses with minimal capital.

Government institutions and organisations are also using these platforms to disseminate information and interact with the public more directly.

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Yet, alongside these benefits, there has been a growing concern over the misuse of digital platforms.

Rumours, unverified claims and deliberately manipulated content can spread rapidly, often outpacing verified information from credible sources.

In an era where information travels instantly, the consequences of misinformation can be severe.

False narratives can inflame tensions, polarise communities and erode trust in public institutions. In extreme cases, they can threaten the peace and stability that underpin national development.

This reality underscores the importance of responsible digital engagement, not only as a matter of personal ethics but also as a collective duty to safeguard national cohesion.

Recognising these challenges, the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) has taken proactive steps to promote responsible online behaviour.

In August 2025, the authority launched a nationwide campaign dubbed “Futa Delete Kabisa”, aimed at discouraging the spread of false, misleading and harmful content on digital platforms.

Speaking in an interview with a local media outlet, TCRA’s Head of Communications and Public Relations, Mr Rolf Kibaja, said the campaign was introduced at a critical time when social media usage is rapidly increasing.

“This campaign comes at a crucial time when social media usage is on the rise. Our goal is to ensure that the public understands the risks and avoids engaging in or spreading false information,” Mr Kibaja explained.

The campaign encourages citizens to verify information before sharing and to delete any content that appears suspicious, misleading or inflammatory.

It also seeks to instil a culture of digital responsibility, particularly among young users who are the most active on social media platforms.

TCRA Senior Content Officer, Mr Rafael Mwango, emphasised that while technological advancement has brought numerous opportunities, it has also introduced complex challenges.

“Technology is advancing rapidly, smartphones are widely available, and many young people now gain access to digital devices at an early stage. While this enhances access to information, it also increases exposure to scams, misinformation and harmful content,” he said.

Mr Mwango urged the public to exercise caution, especially in group platforms where information is often forwarded without verification.

“If you receive a message that appears suspicious or inciting, do not share it. Simply delete it. That is the safest and most responsible action,” he advised.

Beyond awareness campaigns, Tanzania has established legal frameworks to guide responsible digital conduct.

The Cybercrimes Act, 2015, particularly Section 16, addresses offences related to the publication of false information online.

The law imposes strict penalties on individuals who knowingly share misleading or deceptive content with intent to misinform, defame or incite unlawful actions.

Similarly, the Electronic and Postal Communications (Online Content) Regulations, 2020 prohibit the dissemination of content that is obscene, incites violence, threatens national security or disrupts lawful communication.

These regulations require online content providers, service operators and users to comply with national laws and ensure that information shared in digital spaces does not harm public interest.

While laws provide a framework for accountability, experts argue that ethical responsibility remains equally important.

A mass communication specialist and assistant lecturer at the University of Dodoma, Mr Samwel Marwa, stressed that every social media user plays a role in shaping public perception.

“Every individual who shares a post, video or opinion online has influence. Accuracy, verification and ethical communication are essential. Unverified or sensational content can mislead communities, escalate tensions and erode trust,” he said.

Mr Marwa noted that social media should serve as a platform for constructive dialogue rather than confrontation.

He encouraged users, particularly young people, to engage respectfully, even when expressing differing views.

“Digital platforms should promote dialogue, understanding and reconciliation. Disagreement is natural, but it must not lead to hostility or hate speech,” he explained.

He added that sustainable solutions to societal challenges often emerge through respectful engagement, open dialogue and a willingness to listen to diverse perspectives.

These views are echoed by senior diplomat Mr Omar Mjenga, who has called on media practitioners to uphold high professional standards in their reporting, especially during periods of heightened political or social tension.

Speaking at an editors’ seminar themed “The Role of the Media in Safeguarding the Union”, Mr Mjenga urged editors to balance bold reporting with responsibility.

“Do not lower your standards. Be courageous in your reporting, but always consider the impact of your work on national unity. Every story must be weighed against its potential consequences,” he said.

He warned that careless editorial decisions could inadvertently undermine national security and social stability.

While transparency and accountability are vital, he emphasised that journalists must exercise sound judgement in determining what serves the public interest.

Mr Mjenga also raised concerns about collaboration with foreign media outlets without adequate consideration of national context, cautioning that such engagements could sometimes misrepresent local realities.

Political analyst Mr Merdad Wilfred also underscored the importance of critical thinking among citizens in the digital era.

He warned that many individuals consume and share information without questioning its authenticity or intent.

“Citizens must stop blindly believing everything they encounter on social media, especially content designed to provoke unrest or spread fear. There is a need for greater awareness and understanding of national issues,” he said.

According to him, digital platforms should be used to promote unity, economic growth and a positive national image, rather than amplifying division or negativity.

He stressed that political differences should never override the broader goal of national cohesion.

“Social media must never become a weapon for destruction, and violence must never be normalised. Peace remains our greatest asset,” he emphasised.

Mr Wilfred further cautioned that when citizens portray their own country negatively on global platforms, they risk damaging not only the nation’s reputation but also their own long-term interests.

As Tanzania continues to embrace digital transformation, the balance between freedom and responsibility remains a critical issue.

Social media has undeniably expanded opportunities for communication, innovation and participation, but its misuse carries real and far-reaching consequences.

Ensuring a safe, inclusive and constructive digital environment requires collective effort from regulators and media practitioners to individual users.

It calls for adherence to laws, commitment to ethical standards and, above all, a shared understanding that freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly.

Ultimately, the future of Tanzania’s digital space will depend on how effectively citizens harness the power of technology while safeguarding the values of truth, respect and unity that define the nation.