Accreditation reform drives media sector value as 3,200 journalists certified

By Veronica Mrema

Competition in the media sector is currently intense due to the rapid pace of technological transformation and the dynamics of the digital era.

This reality has elevated the debate around credibility, with many arguing that trust has become a greater asset in today’s landscape than even the number of readers or viewers.

It is for this reason that the implementation of an accreditation system for journalists and broadcasters is being described as a strategic step toward strengthening the professional standing of the media industry.

At the same time, accreditation is seen as an important measure to enhance the economic sustainability of media institutions in the country.

The Acting Director General of the Journalists Accreditation Board (JAB), Advocate Patrick Kipangula, made these remarks earlier today at the Annual General Meeting of Broadcasters [ABC 2026] held in Dodoma.

The accreditation system is grounded in the Media Services Act, Cap. 229. Advocate Kipangula said the system aims to establish professional standards, strengthen ethics, and ensure accountability within the industry.

“Accreditation is not a tool to control media content. It is a framework designed to safeguard the dignity of the profession and build public trust in media institutions,” he emphasized.

According to statistics presented at the meeting, more than 3,200 journalists out of 3,900 who applied for Press Cards have already been accredited.

This follows their fulfillment of the legal requirements set under the system. 

The figures indicate a strong response from stakeholders and a clear willingness within the sector to enhance professional standards.

“In the current media market, institutions that invest in the professionalism of their human resources are better positioned to attract advertising revenue, investors, and international partnerships,”.

 Advocate Kipangula stressed during the meeting attended by various stakeholders from the broadcasting sector.

Participants included representatives from the Tanzania Bloggers Network [TBN], the Tanzania Social Media Association [JUMIKITA].

The Tanzania Editors Forum [TEF], MOAT, NIBA, RTD Veterans, the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT), MISA Tanzania, and EACO.

The two-day conference, held on February 12 and 13, 2026, was organized by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority [TCRA].

The meeting coincided with World Radio Day celebrations and was officially opened by the Deputy Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Hamisi Mwinjuma.

The key message emerging from the discussions was the need to build the media sector on strong foundations of professionalism, accountability, and credibility in order to meet the growing demand for accurate digital information.