VOA常速英语:Strengthening Media and Civil Society in Tanzania

The U.S. Government, through the United States Agency for International Development, or USAID, launched a civil society and media strengthening project in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in mid-January. It is called Boresha Habari, or “Better News”.

Implemented in coordination with non-profit organizations Internews and FHI 360, the Boresha Habari project will collaborate with Tanzanian partners, including: the Media Council of Tanzania, Tanzania Bora Initiative, and Jamii Media; to improve professional capacity among journalists and support an open media environment.

Over the next five years, the Boresha Habari project aims to work with media houses and radio stations in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Iringa, Mbeya, Morogoro, Arusha, Manyara, Dodoma, Tanga, Mtwara, Mwanza, and Kigoma to improve their professional capacities.

Specifically, Boresha Habari will provide media outlets with training and technical assistance, help them adopt new digital technologies, and strengthen their management and financial viability. The project will also train civil society organizations to effectively partner with the media.

“The U.S. Government is committed to supporting the professionalization of the Tanzanian media and civil society – particularly empowering women and youth – to raise their voices and concerns effectively as both producers and consumers of information,” remarked USAID Mission Director Andy Karas during the launch event.

The United States is proud to work with its partner Tanzania help build a strong and vibrant civil society supported by a free and independent media.