Radio Mwangaza in Dodoma turned into a vibrant center of learning and collaboration as journalists and presenters from three diocesan radio stations Radio Mwangaza Dodoma, Radio Ukweli Morogoro, and Radio Maria Dodoma came together for a three-day workshop held from September 17 to 19, 2025, organized by the Centre for Research and Education in Communication (CREC). The training brought together media professionals eager to sharpen their skills and deepen their commitment to ethical and responsible journalism ahead of Tanzania’s 2025 general elections.
Under the guidance of Sean-Patrick Lovett and Adolphe Mulengezi, and supported by Athanas Sin’gambi and Mambulu Fortunato Ekutsu, participants explored techniques on “How to Conduct Radio Interviews During Electoral Campaigns.” The three-day training sought to empower journalists with stronger ethical values, sharper professional skills, and greater digital readiness.
The overall goal of the workshop was to equip radio journalists with the tools and values necessary to conduct impactful, balanced, and responsible political interviews, while engaging audiences through both radio and social media.
Key Themes of the Training
Participants explored a range of practical and theoretical topics, including:
- Foundations of political radio journalism and the journalist’s democratic role in informing the public, monitoring power, and facilitating civic dialogue.
- Preparing political interviews through in-depth research on candidates, manifestos, and the issues that matter most to citizens.
- Structuring questions for neutrality and clarity, avoiding bias, and maintaining fairness in airtime and tone.
- Handling aggressive or evasive interviewees, managing misinformation live on air, and ensuring accuracy through responsible fact-checking.
- Using social media responsibly during elections, particularly in a digital environment where misinformation spreads quickly.
Legal and Ethical Dimensions
Participants reflected on Tanzania’s legal and ethical frameworks, including the Media Services Act (2016), Broadcasting Services Act (2017), and the Code of Ethics for Journalists issued by the Media Council of Tanzania (MCT). Discussions emphasized the journalist’s duty to uphold neutrality, avoid hate speech, and ensure fair representation of all political actors.
Hands-On Learning and Creative Practice
The workshop was not limited to theory. Through interactive exercises, group simulations, and role plays, participants practiced real interview scenarios, developed neutral questioning skills, and learned how to manage live discussions with professionalism.
The sessions also included creative activities such as poster design and video highlights, which helped participants apply visual storytelling techniques to their journalistic work. With the contribution of Mambulu Fortunato Ekutsu, an expert in project management and communication, participants were also introduced to design thinking, a method that enhances creativity and problem solving in media production.
Commitment to Media Excellence in Africa
As the training concluded, journalists expressed renewed confidence and motivation to cover the 2025 elections with integrity, balance, and creativity. They committed themselves to promoting ethical journalism that prioritizes truth, fairness, and public service.
With this training, CREC INTERNATIONAL renewed its mission to uplift African media professionals, inspiring them to be voices of peace, truth, and transformation within their communities.
