Women and Journalism in Tanzania Take Center Stage at "Global Solidarity Talks"
The Global Solidarity Network hosted the seventh session of its Swahili-language program, Mazungumzo ya Mshikamano wa Ulimwengu, under the title: "Beyond Tomorrow's Tanzania: The Role of Journalism and Women in Shaping the Future." The session, coinciding with Tanzania's National Day in December 2024, brought together a distinguished group of students, researchers, and media professionals interested in African affairs.
The session featured prominent Tanzanian journalist and communications officer for the Tanzania Media Women’s Association, Ms. Sophia Ngalabi. She emphasized the critical role of journalism in shaping public opinion and educating communities, highlighting how media has been instrumental in connecting Tanzania to the world. Ms. Ngalabi also discussed the impact of modern technology and digital media in amplifying the voices of citizens and addressing societal issues.
She underscored the responsibility of journalism in combating fake news through verified sources and comprehensive analysis, commending Tanzanian institutions for their contributions in this field. Additionally, she highlighted the role of media in fostering national awareness and commemorating significant events such as Tanzania’s Independence Day.
Drawing from her personal experience, Ms. Ngalabi reflected on her journey as a journalist and advocate for women’s issues. She noted the positive strides made in advancing African women's rights, enabling their active participation in both professional and family spheres, and reaffirmed their essential role in community building.
Dr. Ildefrida Tibaji, Program Officer for Culture and Language at the Tanzanian National Commission for UNESCO, contributed insights on the role of media in shaping public consciousness regarding national independence. She praised the media’s efforts in documenting history and rallying support for national causes.
Anthropologist Hassan Ghazaly, founder of the Global Solidarity Network, emphasized journalism as a key tool for preserving cultural and linguistic heritage and strengthening national identity. He remarked that journalism is not merely a medium for delivering news but also a bridge connecting peoples. Ghazaly praised Tanzanian women in journalism as a shining example of promoting cultural values and traditions that contribute to cohesive societies. He added that empowering female journalists enhances media's capacity to tackle global challenges while preserving local identity. Furthermore, Ghazaly called for stronger collaboration between media and cultural institutions to produce content that reflects cultural diversity and highlights women's central role in building the future.
The session was moderated by researcher and translator Nourhan Khaled, coordinator of the Swahili version of the program. Khaled highlighted the significant role of *Global Solidarity Talks* in fostering cultural and media interaction between Egypt and Swahili-speaking communities, promoting cultural understanding, and creating platforms for dialogue on issues shaping the future of societies in the Global South.
Participants affirmed that the program embodies the vision of the Global Solidarity Network in building bridges of communication and cooperation between cultures and reinforcing the role of media in advancing solidarity and sustainable development.
Attendees also commended the efforts of the Global Solidarity Network in supporting young people and media professionals, equipping them with the skills necessary to become active contributors to shaping the future. They stressed the importance of continuing these sessions to address critical issues that unite African communities through solidarity and collective action.