AI tops agenda as Tanzania hosts global media freedom dialogue in Arusha

Dar es Salaam. The rapid changes in technology and how it is transforming the operations of the media globally have prompted Tanzania to call for a high-level forum to deliberate on the future of the media amid the changes.

The government, in collaboration with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the United Nations (UN), and key media stakeholders, will host a three-day commemoration of World Press Freedom Day in Arusha from April 27 to 30, focusing on media navigation in the AI era.

This year’s theme is: “Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and Media.”

Speaking on behalf of the government chief spokesperson, Acting Director of the Information Services Department (Maelezo), Mr Rodney Mbuya, said the theme addresses key issues on technological changes and the role of AI in journalism and media freedom.

“This theme teaches us about the new world of information driven by AI, where media outlets must be cautious and use this technology to benefit society,” Mr Mbuya told reporters during a press briefing held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, in Dar es Salaam.

He said the forum would also challenge journalists, media owners, and governments to ensure that AI helps rather than harms media freedom and people’s right to access accurate information.

“The event will bring together stakeholders from the media sector, international organisations, and civil society to discuss vital issues related to press freedom and the challenges posed by emerging technologies, including AI,” he said.

The government said this is an important opportunity for Tanzania to engage in meaningful dialogue on the future of press freedom in a digital era.

“Already, through similar engagements, Tanzania has made progress in improving the relationship between the government and media houses, including reviewing some of the laws that were previously criticized…,” said Mr Mbuya.

He added that the event will also explore new areas for improvement, such as how AI can be used responsibly in journalism, and how the government and stakeholders can cooperate to build a more vibrant media sector.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Tanzania, Ms Susan Namondo, also stressed the importance of this year’s theme, calling it timely and relevant.

“This is a critical reminder of the responsibility of governments to uphold press freedom as a fundamental right and a cornerstone of democracy,” Ms Namondo said.

She reminded media professionals of their duty to maintain journalistic ethics in the digital age.

“Media professionals must exercise their independence with integrity, offering accurate, balanced, and inclusive information,” she said.

Ms Namondo reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to defending journalists, supporting sustainable media systems, and creating an environment where freedom of expression thrives both online and offline.

“A truly free media is one where diversity flourishes and no voice is silenced by fear, intimidation, or discrimination. We commend the government of Tanzania for taking leadership on this important issue,” she added.

In recent years, Tanzania has shown signs of progress in addressing concerns raised by media practitioners. While challenges still exist, there have been efforts to open up space for dialogue.

Laws previously viewed as restrictive are under review, as the government demonstrates greater willingness to collaborate with media houses.

Local media watchdogs and press freedom organisations have often raised alarm over censorship, limited access to information, and threats to journalists.

However, platforms like this year’s commemoration provide a space for joint reflection and reform.

“We are moving in a positive direction,” said a local editor who asked not to be named.

“AI brings both opportunity and risk. The question now is how to use it to empower, not control,” added the editor.

The commemorations will also highlight the intersection of press freedom with other social rights.

According to the government, civil society groups advocating for environmental protection, women’s rights, children’s rights, indigenous rights, digital rights, and the fight against gender-based violence have been invited to participate.