MCT calls for urgent revision of Media Policy of 2003

February 13, 2025: The Media Council of Tanzania (MCT) has reminded the government to expedite the process of amending the 2003 Media and Broadcasting Policy, which has now become outdated.

This policy was meant to provide a framework for the enactment of laws governing the media sector, such as the 2016 Media Services Act and the 2016 Right to Information Act.

MCT Executive Secretary Ernest Sungura made these remarks in his statement, issued as part of the celebrations for World Radio Day 2025, which is observed every February 13.

This year’s theme is “Radio for Climate Change,” aimed at promoting radio discussions focused on education, advocating for sustainable changes, and engaging communities in conversations about climate change.

“In celebrating World Radio Day, MCT calls on the government to finalize the review of the 2003 Media and Broadcasting Policy, which was initiated in October 2023 by inviting stakeholders to submit their feedback, where MCT presented its recommendations,” he said in the statement.

He noted that the radio sector is facing both economic and legal challenges that are hindering its growth and development in the country.

The statement elaborated that during the National Media Sector Development Conference held in June 2024, MCT emphasized the importance of completing the policy reforms process.

Some of the proposed amendments presented to the government include Section 2.3.2, which addresses media ownership. Stakeholders want the policy to direct the government to enact laws that would allow foreign investors to own up to 75% share, as currently, a foreign investor is required to own no more than 49%.

Furthermore, stakeholders recommend that the policy ensure that local investors entering into partnerships with foreign investors should not have their shares fall below 25%.

Speaking to media stakeholders on December 18, 2024, the Minister for Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi, identified the amendment of this policy as one of his priorities and stated that he would oversee the process of improving the policy.