Govt encourages TSN to raise awareness ahead of 2025 polls

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has urged Tanzania Standard (Newspapers) Limited (TSN) to take the lead in providing accurate information to the public in the lead-up to the 2025 General Election.

The move aims at raising awareness, encourage active participation in the electoral process and enable citizens to make informed decisions.

Speaking during his visit to TSN headquarters on Friday in Dar es Salaam, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports and Chief Government Spokesperson, Mr Gerson Msigwa said TSN has the responsibility to provide voter education, including sensitising the public ahead of 2025 General Election.

TSN publishes the Daily News, Habari Leo, Sunday News, Spoti Leo and Daily News Digital.

Mr Msigwa made his first visit to TSN since he was reappointed to the position by President Samia Suluhu Hassan early December, last year.

During the visit, Mr Msigwa met with TSN management and journalists and toured the construction site of a new state-of-the-art printing factory, which is currently 53 per cent complete and is being built at an estimated cost of approximately 30bn/-.

“Our role, among other things, is to educate the public on electoral matters and ensure adherence to the law,” said Mr Msigwa.

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He added: “We must be at the forefront to ensure that Tanzanians get access to sufficient information, enabling them to be well-informed and aware of election matters. This is a fundamental responsibility for government media and we must carry it out with full commitment using all our knowledge and expertise without hesitation.”

He also urged journalists to continue prioritising professionalism, objectivity and competence in their work, emphasising the importance of boldly safeguarding the national interest.

Mr Msigwa also urged TSN, through its publications, to intensify efforts in informing the public about various government initiatives.

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This includes the preparations for the National Development Vision 2025-2050, as well as campaigns such as the clean cooking energy spearheaded by the President and other environmental initiatives.

Regarding technological advancements, the PS advised the media to explore innovative solutions for transforming operations, particularly in content dissemination. He emphasised the need to transition from traditional methods to modern approaches by embracing creativity and innovation.

“I have encouraged creativity, and in collaboration with the ministry, we will ensure that we develop more effective ways to fulfill TSN’s responsibility of informing Tanzanians,” he said.

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He also highlighted the importance of revising marketing and promotion strategies to enhance excellence in both operations and the entity’s core business.

Moreover, Mr Msigwa commended TSN for its long-standing and distinguished service in informing and educating the public.

Earlier, TSN Managing Director Asha Dachi briefed the PS on the company’s operational strategies and plans to enhance production as well as the progress of the ongoing construction project.