Tanzania’s information minister: Journalism not just talent, academic qualifications a must

Mbeya. The Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Prof Palamagamba Kabudi, has underscored that journalism and broadcasting are recognised professions in Tanzania, stressing that those aspiring to join the industry must possess the required education and qualifications.

Prof Kabudi made the remarks on August 18, 2025, in Mbeya while addressing journalists during a stakeholders’ meeting for media and broadcasting practitioners from the Southern Highlands regions.

The meeting was aimed at strengthening mutual understanding among industry players and reducing unnecessary conflicts.

“For a long time, people believed that being a journalist or broadcaster was merely a matter of talent rather than a profession, which is not true. Journalism is a profession governed by standards and guided by ethics. It is a noble calling, and we must respect it,” he said.

He urged practitioners currently working without formal training to pursue further studies in order to secure accreditation. According to him, the government has already established the Journalists Accreditation Board (JAB), to safeguard the integrity of the profession.

The board is working with institutions such as the Open University of Tanzania (OUT) to provide opportunities for journalists to upgrade their skills.

In a separate appeal, Prof Kabudi called on journalists to uphold professionalism and patriotism, noting their role in safeguarding national unity and nurturing love for the country.

“A patriotic journalist, who cherishes and values their nation, does not deny that challenges exist, nor does it mean there are no shortcomings. Patriotism stems from recognising that this is your country – the land where you were born and where you live,” he stressed.

The Southern Highlands regions represented at the meeting included Iringa, Njombe, Songwe, Rukwa, Ruvuma, Katavi and the host region, Mbeya