Government urges responsible journalism

• Stresses media role on peace, unity and reconciliation

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has called on journalists to uphold professionalism in promoting peace, unity and reconciliation, as the country strives to achieve the goals of Development Vision 2050.

It said peace and stability remain key pillars for safe national progress and the attainment of set objectives, while also fostering an inclusive society characterised by justice, good governance, an industrial economy, employment opportunities, technological advancement and a conducive environment for present and future generations.

The call was made yesterday by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Arts, Culture and Sports, Mr Gerson Msigwa, when addressing a meeting of chairpersons and secretaries of the Union of Tanzania Press Clubs (UTPC).

The meeting, held in Dar es Salaam, brought together leaders of press clubs from across the country, media stakeholders and journalists from various media outlets.

“Individual development and the national economy largely depend on the state of peace and stability,” Mr Msigwa said, noting that a peaceful nation provides citizens with opportunities to participate in economic activities and attracts foreign investment across various sectors.

He added that journalists have a significant responsibility to safeguard national values, including peace, stability, unity and solidarity through their work.

Mr Msigwa, who also serves as the Chief Government Spokesperson, further said that in the current era of rapid technological advancement, some global media platforms are being misused to spread propaganda, hate speech, incitement and misinformation, acts that can lead to conflict, loss of life, injuries and destruction of property, as well as harm national and family economies.

He stressed that the media have a wide reach within a short period of time and, if misused, can contribute to civil unrest, internal conflicts and major national crises.

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Mr Msigwa urged journalists to consider the impact of the information they publish and to continue producing content that builds the nation while prioritising national interests.

“I commend Tanzanian journalists for protecting the country from such dangers. For a long time, you have used your pens constructively to build rather than destroy the nation, recognising that Tanzanians have a culture of resolving challenges through dialogue and mutual understanding,” he said.

For his part, the Director of the Union of Tanzania Press Clubs (UTPC), Mr Kenneth Simbaya, said journalists have a duty to interpret and promote the goals outlined in Development Vision 2025, which prioritises peace, stability and unity.

He added that UTPC not only advocates for journalists’ interests but also contributes to national development, noting that when well utilised, press clubs can deliver significant benefits to the country.

Meanwhile, the Tanzania Police Force spokesperson, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) David Misime, said the force, in collaboration with other security agencies, will continue to ensure a safe environment for journalists so that information reaches the public in a timely manner.

He also urged journalists to continue using their platforms to promote peace, stability, reconciliation and unity, emphasising their significant influence in society.

“The safety of journalists is a priority for us. We believe that when all Tanzanians, including journalists, are safe, we can effectively participate in development activities and grow the economy,” he said.