3,357 Journalists Accredited Through TAI HABARI System

By Our Reporter, Dodoma The Government has begun to realize the benefits of digital transformation in the media sector, following the accreditation of 3,357 journalists within less than one year through the modern TAI HABARI system. This achievement marks a significant step toward strengthening professionalism, accountability, and regulation in the journalism sector. For the first time, the industry is operating under a formal digital system that enables efficient processing of applications and verification of journalists in accordance with the Media Services Act, Cap. 229. Presenting the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports budget estimates for the 2026/2027 financial year in Parliament in Dodoma, the Minister, Hon. Paul Christian Makonda, stated that between July 2025 and April 2026, the Journalists Accreditation Board (JAB) received and processed a total of 4,139 registration applications through the TAI HABARI system. Out of these applications, 3,357 journalists met the required criteria and were granted accreditation in line with the law. In addition, Hon. Makonda noted that JAB handled 14 complaints related to breaches of professional ethics, an indication of the growing effectiveness of accountability mechanisms within the sector. Furthermore, he explained that the Government, through JAB, has developed a special legal guideline aimed at enabling veteran journalists who were previously affected by the accreditation system to re-enter the formal framework, in compliance with the Media Services Act, Cap. 229. He emphasized that the guideline establishes a legal procedure for recognizing and validating their competence through a structured assessment of experience, professionalism, and ethical standards, thereby allowing them to obtain accreditation lawfully. “This guideline provides a legal framework for recognizing and certifying their competence through a special assessment of experience, professionalism, and ethical conduct, enabling them to be accredited in accordance with the law,” said Hon. Makonda. This initiative aims to safeguard and strengthen the journalism profession by ensuring that even experienced journalists are integrated into a legally recognized system.