CoRI commits to enforcing Media Symposium Resolutions

Coalition on Right to Information (CoRI) Chairperson who is also the Executive Secretary of the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT), Ernest Sungura (wearing glasses) emphasizing a point when presenting a CoRI Strategy during the CoRI meeting held on August 6, 2024 at Seashells hotel in Kijitonyama – Dar es Salaam. On his left is the coalition’s secretary, Saumu Mwalimu.

By MCT reporter

Dar es Salaam: Members of the Coalition on the Right to Information (CoRI) have pledged to follow up on the implementation of resolutions made during the 2^nd National Media Sector Development Symposium held on June 18 and 19, 2024.

During their fourth meeting on August 6, 2024, CoRI members emphasized the importance of ensuring that the resolutions are not merely recorded but are actively implemented to provide tangible relief to the media sector.

The symposium resulted in six key resolutions, including a commitment by ministries and government agencies to establish mechanisms for paying their debts to media outlets by December 24, 2024.

Additionally, once the media outlets receive payments, they are expected to use the funds to pay outstanding salaries, benefits, and provide employment contracts to their journalists.

Another resolution called on the government to revise laws related to media industry investment, proposing an increase in the foreign investment cap from 49% to 75% to attract foreign capital and help revive struggling media houses. The symposium also advocated for the review of 12 sections of the Media Services Act of 2016.

For media houses, the symposium emphasized the importance of publishing content that fosters unity, peace, and defends Tanzania’s image against harmful propaganda. It also encouraged community media to report on development projects in their local areas. In anticipation of upcoming local and general elections, the symposium urged media outlets to provide equal coverage opportunities to all political parties.

Online media were encouraged to enhance creativity and innovation while maintaining credible content. Additionally, media houses were advised to diversify their revenue streams beyond the news and information business.

“The follow-up will provide us with valuable insights to better organize future events and ensure that these resolutions are not just left on paper but are translated into concrete actions for the benefit of the sector,” said Raymond Kanegene from the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC).

CoRI Chairperson Ernest Sungura urged members to integrate the symposium’s resolutions into their programs, particularly those related to media stakeholders, including CoRI members.

The meeting also served as a platform for members to discuss CoRI’s Consolidated Schedule of Amendment on the Information and Broadcasting Policy of 2003. This document proposes updates to the outdated policy, which will be submitted to the government for consideration during its review.

CoRI members include Twaweza, Sikika, Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), Tanzania Editors Forum (TEF), Tanzania Media Women Association (TAMWA), Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC), and Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA-TAN).

Others are Tanzania Development Information Organization (TADIO), Policy Forum, Jamii Forums, Union of Tanzania Press Clubs (UTPC), Organization of Journalists Against Drugs and Crimes in Tanzania (OJADACT), and Tanzania Citizens’ Information Bureau (TCIB). The coalition is chaired by the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT). Ends.