By Veronica Mrema - Dar es Salaam
Journalists in Tanzania are increasingly calling for the establishment of psychological support services, as their work exposes them to emotionally challenging and often traumatic situations in the line of duty.
In many cases, journalists are deployed to report on tragic incidents such as road accidents, marine disasters, and other distressing events.
While their role is to gather, process, and deliver accurate information to the public, the nature of these assignments often leaves lasting emotional effects.
“It is common, for example, when there is an accident, to witness bodies of the deceased or blood scattered around. 
"These are situations that deeply affect one’s psychological well-being,” said Clouds Media Group News Editor Joyce Shebe.
Shebe was among the panelists who spoke during a discussion at the first-ever “Malikia wa Habari” symposium.
She noted that journalists often collect stories, return to their offices, write and publish them, but leave the scene carrying emotional trauma.
“Due to the nature of their work, including investigative reporting, covering tragic incidents, and dealing with online harassment, 
".., journalists are constantly exposed to challenges that can leave emotional scars, cause stress, and even affect their overall mental health,” she added.
She further pointed out that newsroom environments in many cases lack structured psychological support programs, despite the clear mental health challenges journalists face in their daily work.
Her remarks echoed the presentation by Dr. Raymond Mgeni from the Tanzania Mental Health Journalists Organization [TAMHJO].
TAMHJO was among the sponsors of the conference and is working to expand its reach to more journalists across the country.
Dr. Minja emphasized the need to establish psychological support systems for journalists, ensuring that no group especially women is left behind.
“It is important to openly discuss mental health and create environments that enable access to psychological support services,” he stressed.
He added that journalists, particularly those who face online harassment, physical threats, or who witness traumatic events in the course of their duties, are at higher risk of experiencing mental health challenges.
In addition to advocating for support systems, Dr. Minja also educated participants on how to maintain their mental well-being and encouraged them to report on mental health issues responsibly.
He noted that doing so would help reduce stigma in society, provide the public with accurate information, and promote better mental health awareness.
The “Malikia wa Habari” symposium was held on March 28, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, bringing together about 60 female journalists from various media houses.
Opening the conference, the Minister for Information, Communications and Information Technology, Angellah Kairuki, acknowledged its significance for both journalists and the wider community.
She recognized the important contribution of female journalists in advancing and strengthening the media sector in the country.
“There are many opportunities in the media and communications sector that women should take advantage of, and the government is ready to work with you to ensure you access them,” she said.
She also emphasized the importance of unity among all accredited female journalists to facilitate formal recognition by the government.
Malikia wa Habari coordinator Penina Malundo said the main objective of the event was to bring together female journalists to discuss the challenges they face and amplify their collective voice.
Another objective, she added, was to foster collaboration in social initiatives, enabling participants to achieve their goals and realize their aspirations.
Chapisha Maoni