On September 28, 2020, UNESCO in close collaboration with the Network of Community Media in Tanzania (TADIO) managed to steal the show in Arusha, as they commemorated the International Day for the Universal Access to Information (IDUAI)
Graced by Hon. Idd Kimanta, Arusha Regional Commissioner and colored by a traditional Maasai dance, the event managed to stop business in Arusha as it pulled together all high-level government officials inclusive of security organs in the region.
In his speech, Hon. Kimanta called upon journalists to ensure that they disseminate accurate information and to shun away from airing hate speech and content, which degrade humanity.
Media personnel should be keen to know what ought to go out by making sure that the news that goes on air promotes love, peace, unity and progress in the country. Be keen and mind about your safety first as your families depend on you. Not every news is worth disseminating as some could put your lives under siege
The chief guest paid an accolade to UNESCO and the Swiss Agency for Cooperation and Development (SDC) for their support towards community radios, saying without them the day may have not been commemorated.
For his part, Professor Eliphas Bisanda, Chairperson of the UNESCO National Commission of the United Republic of Tanzania called upon media personnel to ensure what is reported is accurate and timely.
Make sure you adhere to media ethics as not every information is worth disseminating
In his speech, Tirso Dos Santos, UNESCO Dar es Salaam Head of Office and Representative reiterated the agency’s commitment to collaborate with the government and to support community radios in Tanzania.
The event brought together over 70 representatives from the government, media fraternity including TADIO member radio stations and journalists from Arusha region.
This year’s IDUAI theme is ‘Access to Information – Saving lives, Building Trust, Bringing Hope’.
