Tanzania hails its media’s role in driving the country’s economic growth

DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has said the media sector continues to play a key role in driving economic growth in the country by identifying and developing talent, creating employment, and ensuring citizens have access to accurate and timely information.

The statement was made today, May 4, 2026, in Parliament in Dodoma by the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda, while presenting the ministry’s revenue and expenditure estimates for the 2026/2027 financial year.

Minister Makonda said that through the Information Services Department and the Government Chief Spokesperson’s Office, the ministry has continued to communicate government initiatives by providing updates on the implementation of development projects. This, he said, is aimed at ensuring citizens receive accurate information on achievements and measures being taken to improve social services and promote national economic growth.

He noted that these efforts have enabled citizens to better understand the implementation of major strategic projects, particularly in transport infrastructure, including railways, roads, water, and aviation, thereby strengthening Tanzania’s competitiveness regionally and internationally.

Among the projects highlighted to the public are the construction and operation of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), the rehabilitation of the TAZARA railway, and the upgrading and expansion of airports to improve passenger and cargo handling efficiency.

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In addition, the government has continued to invest in the expansion and improvement of ports in Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Tanga, Mtwara, Bukoba, and Kigoma, a move that is boosting trade and contributing to national economic growth.

Minister Makonda further said the ministry has also communicated the completion of the JP Magufuli Bridge (Kigongo–Busisi) in Mwanza Region, which has become a major relief for residents and traders in the Lake Zone and neighbouring countries.

He added that updates have also been provided on the completion of the MV Mwanza vessel, rehabilitation of ferries, and improvement of transport services across Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Nyasa, and the Indian Ocean.

Furthermore, he said the ministry has reported on the construction of drug storage warehouses for the Medical Stores Department (MSD) in Dodoma’s Central Zone, efforts to promote the tourism sector, and improvements in electricity generation driven by the efficiency of the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP).

He emphasized that timely and accurate information dissemination will remain a government priority in ensuring transparency, accountability, and public participation in the national development process.