Irish Minister stresses on independent, quality journalism

Dar es Salaam. Ireland Minister for the Diaspora and Overseas Development, Ciaran Cannon T.D has stressed on effective and crucial role that the media play in ensuring accountability and transparency and thus promoting democratic values through encouraging vibrant public debate.

Minister Cannon made the remark during a visit he paid today October 18 to the offices of Mwananchi Communications Limited (MCL) in the company of Tanzania Media Foundation (TMF) executive officer, Mr Ernest Sungura as well as embassy officials.

During the tour he interacted directly with the journalists, editors and members of MCL management team. MCL publishes Mwananchi, The Citizen and Mwanaspoti.

“A strong, independent and vibrant media is not just a source of economic activity, but, in Ireland’s experience, has an essential role in supporting national development,” he said.

The minister, who is on a four-day visit to Tanzania, said he was delighted to hear directly from the company’s editorials staffs and, in a particular way, “the way the company has strengthened its investigative journalism.”

The company’s journalists are among several other members of the profession who have benefited from the Irish government in terms of training and support through its partner, TMF.

As part of his visit, the minister met with Vice President, Ms Samia Suluhu Hassan as well as other government officials and Ireland partners in the country.