The Union of Tanzania Press Clubs (UTPC), in collaboration with International Media Support (IMS), has implemented various interventions at national and regional levels through Press Clubs to enhance the safety and security of journalists in the country, resulting in a significant decrease in media violations incidents.

Records from UTPC indicate a notable reduction in media violation cases, dropping from 23 in 2022 to 15 in 2023. Previously, journalists faced numerous challenges, including physical assaults, often attributed to the police force.

The Media Council of Tanzania (MCT) reported a total of 272 media violation cases over a ten-year period, with the police identified as the primary perpetrator in 52 cases.

UTPC and IMS initiated efforts in 2020 to strengthen civil society capacity and participation in advocating for media policy reforms, citizen access to information, fundamental freedoms, and the safety of journalists in Tanzania. These efforts utilised various approaches, including safety and security dialogues, training sessions, and the establishment of mechanisms to ensure journalists' safety.

Throughout 2022 and 2023, UTPC conducted a total of 56 safety dialogues across 14 regions, fostering discussions between journalists and the police force. The objectives of these dialogues were to improve relations, enhance understanding of challenges faced by both parties, promote freedom of expression and access to information, and identify practical measures for enhancing the safety and security of journalists.

The impact of these initiatives has been evident, with an improvement in the working relationship between the police force and journalists. The police have shifted their approach, opting for peaceful resolutions rather than immediate arrests. A recent incident on Tuesday, 21st, 2023, involving journalists Jamal Meena and Dickson Kapungu, illustrates this positive change. Instead of being arrested after a manager reported them to the police, a peaceful resolution was reached, allowing the journalists to continue their reporting.

Historically, journalists in Mwanza faced challenges during general election campaigns, leading to arrests in 2020 and 2021. However, recent discussions between the police and Mwanza Press Club have resulted in positive changes, fostering a WhatsApp group for information sharing and knowledge exchange.

UTPC continues to promote safety of journalists by establishing safety and security mechanisms for journalists in Tanzania. The mechanism aim to offer legal support and healthcare assistance to journalists in distress of legal or medical issues.

Notably, Yasir Mkubwa from Zanzibar and Dickson Kapungu from Songwe received UTPC's legal support in 2022.

As a testament to the success of these initiatives, the collaborative efforts of UTPC and IMS have played a vital role in creating a safer and more secure environment for journalists in Tanzania. The commitment to open dialogue and collaboration has led to positive outcomes, benefiting both journalists and law enforcement alike.

The ongoing efforts by UTPC reflect a promising future for the press in Tanzania, with the potential for continued improvement in safety, security, and the overall well-being of journalists across the nation.