Empowering Journalists with AI: A Call from the Prime Minister Majaliwa
Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa
By Paul Mallimbo
Arusha: Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has reiterated the Tanzanian government’s commitment to supporting the media in protecting press freedom and encouraging responsible journalism, especially as technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), changes how we share and receive information.
While speaking at the national commemoration of World Press Freedom Day in Arusha, 29th May 2025, Majaliwa highlighted that AI should be seen as a helpful tool for journalists, not something that restricts their work.
“As we commemorate this important day, we need to make sure that AI serves to assist journalists, rather than hinder their freedom,” he stated.
He praised the media for its crucial role in keeping the public informed, enabling citizen participation in government affairs, and fostering national unity. “Thanks to the media, we have been able to educate our people, promote peace, and share a positive image of Tanzania with the world,” he added.
Majaliwa also warned that journalism, without professionalism and respect for ethical standards, jeopardizes national harmony. As the country approaches its general elections in October this year, he encouraged all citizens to engage peacefully and lawfully.
“Everyone must ensure that the elections are fair and peaceful,” he urged, encouraging the media to report truthfully and help get citizens involved.
Echoing the Prime Minister’s sentiments, the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi, recognized how technology is transforming journalism.
He urged journalists to use AI to enhance their storytelling. “Let AI make your stories better, not diminish your journalistic values,” he emphasized, while aligning with the event theme: “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and Media.”
Additionally, Prof. Kabudi announced that the government would be reinstating the English-language service of the Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC). This move, he said, aims to ensure that Tanzania’s achievements are shared more widely with the world. “We want everyone to hear about Tanzania’s progress,” he emphasized.
Adding on the remarks from Majaliwa and Kabudi, the Government Spokesperson and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Gerson Msigwa, focused on the working conditions of journalists.
He insisted on the importance of protecting journalists’ rights. “You can take everything from journalists, but never take away their freedom. Don’t harass them while they are working,” he urged.
Msigwa praised media professionals for their hard work and commitment, calling them the country’s vital “fourth estate.” “You bring hope to the people. If you lose hope, so will they,” he remarked, commending journalists for their dedication even in tough situations.
The event gathered senior government officials, journalists, development partners, and civil society representatives to discuss the importance of press freedom and strengthening journalism as an essential part of democracy and sustainable development.