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Empowering Journalists to Build Safer Digital Spaces: JamiiAfrica Engages Dodoma Media Group

On 30 October 2026, JamiiAfrica visited Dodoma Media Group to share research findings on misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and online gender-based violence (OGBV) within Tanzania’s digital ecosystem.

The engagement brought together journalists and editors for discussions on emerging digital threats, the challenges facing newsrooms in maintaining information integrity, and measures to promote safer online spaces. Particular attention was given to the growing influence of AI-generated content and the increasing prevalence of hate speech and OGBV in online public discourse, which disproportionately affect women journalists and marginalised voices.

The visit forms part of JamiiAfrica’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, under Pillar Two: Civic Space, Media and Civil Society Strengthening. This pillar recognises the critical role of strong media institutions and civil society organisations in amplifying citizens’ voices, promoting accountability and safeguarding civic participation.

As part of this commitment, JamiiAfrica works to strengthen media capacity and integrity for journalists across Tanzania. The organisation also monitors misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and online gender-based violence. The research findings shared during the engagement were intended to provide newsrooms with practical, evidence-based insights to help them identify, understand and respond to these challenges.

The engagement also reflects the changing digital landscape and Tanzania’s evolving civic environment ahead of the 2027–2030 electoral and civic calendar. As artificial intelligence continues to transform information production and dissemination, the risks of coordinated disinformation and other forms of digital harm are becoming increasingly complex. Newsrooms therefore need relevant skills, tools and institutional support to effectively address these threats.

JamiiAfrica remains committed to working with media houses to provide practical fact-checking resources, support the development and strengthening of newsroom policies addressing emerging digital threats, and equip practising and aspiring journalists with the knowledge and skills to counter misinformation, hate speech and OGBV.

Through these partnerships, JamiiAfrica aims to promote information integrity, strengthen media resilience and contribute to safer digital spaces where journalists and all citizens can participate freely and confidently.