Rev. Lazaro of Evangelistic Assemblies of God Tanzania, Babati, issued a statement during the journalists' safety and security dialogue organized by the Union of Tanzania Press Club in collaboration with the Manyara Press Club.

He emphasized that the successful advocacy for the safety and security of journalists requires collaboration among religious leaders.

"Once religious leaders unite in advocating for the safety and security of journalists, we will be successful," Rev. Lazaro stated.

He advised the continuation of safety dialogues, emphasizing their pivotal role in creating a media-friendly operational environment.

The Regional Police Commander of Manyara, SACP. George Katabazi, affirmed that the police force in the region provides security to journalists to enable them to collect, write, and disseminate information to the public in a safe environment.

Speaking on the impact of the dialogues, Katabazi recalled that during the first quarter, there were no incidents of journalist arrests or any inhumane actions against them recorded in the region. He pledged the sustainability of this situation, as the force is improving by providing training to the police to adopt a peaceful approach towards journalists.

Manyara Press Club and UTPC conducted the fourth journalists' safety and security dialogue this week, bringing together the Police force, religious leaders, political leaders, lawyers, and common citizens. This move of involving other stakeholders aims to expand the advocacy efforts for the safety and security of journalists.

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