Our regional togetherness is a win towards media freedoms: Ernest Sungura
The Executive Secretary of the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT), Ernest Sungura (left) speaking with the Vice President of the Rwanda Media Commission (RMC) Rev Uwimana Jean Piere during the meeting of the East Africa Press Councils (EAPC) held in Kigali, Rwanda on June 25, 2024.
Kigali, Rwanda. Members of the East Africa Press Councils (EAPC) are convening in Kigali, Rwanda to develop a five-year strategic plan aiming at protecting regional freedom of the expression and of the media as well as to promote journalism professionalism and standards.
Speaking during the meeting Media Council of Tanzania (MCT) Executive Secretary Ernest Sungura insisted on the need for the regional press councils’ bodies to have one voice, power and unity in order to protect and promote media freedom.
He said that the currently, societies in East African countries live in a time when the role of the media is more crucial than ever and it is imperative to stand together against any threats to its independence.
“In our roles, our commitment is unwavering: to safeguard the rights of journalists, to combat corruption and censorship and to ensure that the media can operate without fear of repression or retaliation.
“Let us work tirelessly not only in East Africa but also in Africa to support journalists, defend their rights and promote an environment where they can pursue the truth without obstruction. This includes advocating for legal protections, providing resources and support and fostering a global dialogue on the importance of a free and open press,” said Sungura.
In his remarks, Sungura recognized the work of his predecessor, former MCT Executive Secretary, Kajubi Mukajanga expressing his pride for the achievements rendered by Mukajanga in strengthening the capacity of the MCT in terms of systems, policies and procedures to delivery of self-regulation of the media in Tanzania.
“Mr Kajubi has left me with a lot of blessings not only from the achievements he realized at MCT but also the blessings followed me to South Africa in Capetown on 16th of May, 2024 when I was elected the first Chairman of the Network of Independent Media Council in Africa (NIMCA),” added Sungura.
More about EAPC
The East Africa Press Councils (EAPC) is a registered body bringing together media regulatory and development organizations from the East African region embracing the spirit and aspirations of the East African community.
Among other things, EAPC aims to promote and protect free, independent, professional and accountable media in East Africa as well as promote media pluralism and diversity.