JAB Proposes Major Reforms to Protect Bloggers and Content Creators



The Journalists Accreditation Board (JAB) has underscored the urgent need to review the country’s Media Services Policy and Law in order to keep pace with the rapid evolution of digital technology.

The move aims to ensure that the law, enacted in 2016 before the current expansion of social media platforms, provides a broader interpretation that formally recognizes and regulates bloggers and online content creators. In light of the present digital landscape, JAB sees the review as necessary to incorporate these fast-growing groups into the formal media framework.

This was revealed in a presentation delivered by JAB’s Acting Director General, Advocate Patrick Kipangula, during the 2026 Annual Broadcasting Conference held in Dodoma. He explained that the official accreditation system was established under the Media Services Act, Chapter 229, with the objective of safeguarding public interest and strengthening professional ethics in journalism.

Currently, JAB oversees the recognition of media professionals through its digital accreditation system known as TAI-HABARI, where qualified journalists are issued Press Cards valid for two years. As of January 2026, statistics indicate that more than 3,200 applications have been approved, while others are still under review.

Despite these achievements, the Board acknowledged the existence of challenges, including negative perceptions among some stakeholders who view accreditation as a control mechanism rather than a tool for enhancing professional standards and quality journalism.

Furthermore, limited awareness of the law has led some journalists to submit applications that do not meet the required professional qualifications, including the minimum requirement of a Diploma or Degree in Journalism. JAB stressed that a journalist without accreditation lacks legal recognition and may face serious penalties, warning that such practices weaken public trust in the media sector.

Advocate Kipangula added that the Board is committed to continuing education efforts for journalists and media owners in collaboration with other authorities such as the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) and academic institutions.

The goal is to ensure that accreditation serves as a professional safeguard for journalists in the course of their duties, provides institutional protection against threats, and guarantees that the public receives accurate and credible information.







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