INTRODUCTION Access to information is enshrined in Tanzania’s constitution. The Access to Information Act was enacted in 2016 to ensure, among other things, access to public interest information held by public organisations. The National Telecommunication Policy of 1997 promotes the sharing of information in Tanzania through “regulations, fair competition, enforcement of standards, rural connectivity and development of citizens’ skills and competencies in telecommunications”. The implementation of liberal policies creates an environment for variety of communication channels including telecommunication networks, radio (including community radios) and television stations, and newspapers. These channels provide citizens with diverse information and broadens the spectrum of information dissemination. There is also an increase in the use of information and communication technologies among public organisations which enhances the gathering, processing, storage and dissemination of information, both online and offline. The use of social media has grown to the extent that it has become the main source of news and information in the country. However, none of this actually guarantees people’s freedom of information. The enactment of opposing laws (such as Cybercrime Act of 2015, Electronic and Postal Communications Act of 2010 and the Media Services Act of 2016) infringe on freedom of information and accessibility of information from private and public organisations. Journalists and members of the public have been fined for alleged breach of these laws. A number of media houses/channels have been banned (such as Mwananchi Online and Kwanza TV Online), and others have had their license revoked (such as Tanzania Daima newspaper). This has impacted on how citizens and journalists can exercise their constitutional rights to seek, receive and share information. There is fear about openly critising the government. Information officers impose strict selfcensorship on the information in their custody. RETURN TO CONTENTS PAGE RATIONALE AND RESEARCH PARAMETERS AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this study was to assess the state of access to information in Tanzania. Specifically it sought to examine the level of openness and ability to provide requested information by public organisations. Eight organisations were surveyed between 14 July – 4 August 2020. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY y To determine which organisations (both government and public) provide information to citizens upon request, timeously and with relative ease. y To determine which organisations (both government and public) utilise online platforms to promote access to information. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY The research adopts both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection, and seeks to evaluate the level of public access to information held by government and public organisations. Each MISA Chapter conducts research by evaluating the websites of government and public organisations along with submitting written requests for information (physical delivery as well as email). This method seeks to establish the transparency and efficiency of government and public organisations in providing information to the public. LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY y The Access to Information Act of 2016 provides 21 days to receive feedback from an information request. However, this is often not the case as many information officers delay, restrict or deny access to information. y Most organisations do not have clearly designated officials to receive and respond to requests for information. 149 TANZANIA TRANSPARENCY ASSESSMENT REPORT