DODOMA: AS Tanzania joins other nations to mark World Press Freedom Day, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has instructed government officials to avoid bureaucratic obstacles to enhance access to information
The Premier issued the directive in Dodoma on Friday when he was addressing journalists and other media stakeholders at the commemoration of the day and insisted that the availability of information to enable scribes to carry out their work effectively.
The Premier issued the directive in Dodoma on Friday when he was addressing journalists and other media stakeholders at the commemoration of the day and insisted that the availability of information to enable scribes to carry out their work effectively.
“Government leaders and officials, as well as organizations, should adhere to the 2016 Access to Information Act and eliminate barriers in accessing information to enable journalists to obtain accurate information and perform their duties effectively,” he said.
Regarding access to accurate information, the Prime Minister also urged institutional leaders to create conducive environments for journalists to uphold professionalism and facilitate the accessibility of vital information at all levels of society.
Furthermore, he urged media organizations to establish specialized desks to coordinate climate change issues.
“These desks should seek funding to implement a training program for journalists on professionally reporting on climate change issues and their impacts on society and the nation.
“This issue should be completed so that there is a report on implementation next year’s commemoration,” he emphasized.
Regarding investigative reporting, the Prime Minister said that such journalism requires sufficient financial resources for training and carrying out the work itself.
“I urge all stakeholders, including institutions, civil society organizations, and various local and international organizations, to collaborate with the media in conducting research and investigative reporting and assisting media organizations to grow professionally and economically,” the Premier reported.
Addressing the challenges faced by female journalists, the Prime Minister called on the Ministry of Information, Communication, and Technology and the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Children and Persons with Disabilities to ensure the completion of the second phase of the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children (NPA-VAWC II).
“This step will help address the challenges of physical attacks on female journalists,” he said.
He took the opportunity to urge all journalists to uphold patriotism, professionalism, and ethical standards in journalism to make a positive contribution to society, as failure to do so could undermine development and even jeopardize national peace, unity, and solidarity.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister said that the media has a significant role in promoting the country and creating a positive international image and praised journalists for their work in informing the public.
“The media has greatly contributed to promoting investment, advertising tourist attractions, and contributing to the economic development of our nation.
“On behalf of the government and all Tanzanian citizens, I commend our media for the great work they do in serving the public,” he said.
The theme for the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day for the year 2024 is: “Journalism and the Challenges of Climate Change.”
Earlier, the Minister of Information, Communication, and Technology, Nape Nnauye, said that the state of press freedom in the country has improved compared to the past.
The event was well-attended by various stakeholders, including ambassadors from the United States, Switzerland, a representative from the United Nations, UNESCO, Civil Society Organizations, Representatives from the Union of 28 Journalist Clubs of Tanzania (UTPC), Forum of Editors, and students.
The post PM calls for enhanced access to information for journalists first appeared on Daily News.
DODOMA: AS Tanzania joins other nations to mark World Press Freedom Day, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has instructed government officials to avoid bureaucratic obstacles to enhance access to information The Premier issued the directive in Dodoma on Friday when he was addressing journalists and other media stakeholders at the commemoration of the day and insisted …
The post PM calls for enhanced access to information for journalists first appeared on Daily News.
