media freedom, both in theory and in practice, is crucial for grasping their professional values. In addressing press freedom in Tanzania, getting the voices of journalists was crutial and necessary. Journalists wield significant influence in society, serving as vital conduits of information. Furthermore, exploring their expectations regarding their societal role and impact offers valuable insights into their motivations and aspirations. The media not only keeps the public abreast of important events and trends but also acts as a vigilant overseer, holding individuals in positions of authority accountable. Conclusion The genuine intentions of President Hassan may be understood, but the suspension of media outlets is not the sole cause for concern. It serves as a platform for national discourse, providing a stage and a voice for citizens, with journalists positioned at the heart of these crucial roles. The safety of Tanzanian journalists is a pressing issue, with instances of detentions, arbitrary attacks, and even fatalities among media professionals. Consequently, the perspectives and viewpoints of journalists carry substantial weight. For the first time in Tanzania, media organisations including MISA Tanzania launched a report on journalists’ voices “Sauti za Waandishi”, a survey led by Twaweza East Africa. Notably, the VPN issue that came up in 2023 showed that challenges still persist around the access to information and press freedom. This precarious situation has compelled many journalists and critics to resort to self-censorship as a means of avoiding repercussions. The recent study shed light on the challenging conditions faced by journalists in Tanzania, highlighting various factors such as safety concerns, lack of freedom, and declining wellbeing. In essence, critical topics are often presented in a diluted manner to conform to the government’s prescribed standards of “ideal” content. The study, titled “Sauti za Waandishi: A Survey of Tanzanian Media Practitioners,” draws from comprehensive perspectives of 1,202 journalists, editors, and bloggers, making it one of the largest studies of its kind in Africa. As the survey report of “sauti za waandishi”; where journalists’ voice has been aired and identify key issues that affects free press in Tanzania. Regrettably, the confluence of restricted freedom of expression, increasing selfcensorship, and the persistent suspension of legitimate media outlets not only cultivates an atmosphere of fear and tension, but also obstructs the exercise of various human rights, including those of children and women. The findings underscore the complex landscape journalists navigate, including issues like financial stability, job satisfaction, and the frequency of threats and harassment they encounter. Understanding journalists’ perspectives on References (1) Pekkonen, S. (2022, February 24). Tanzania Press Freedom plunges into un- (6) (Kivikuru 1994; Servaes & Malikhao 2008; Sparks 2011.) precedented crisis. International Press Institute. Retrieved November 3, 2022, (7) https://twaweza.org/resources/ (2) Thomas, D., Brian Loader, B. (2000). Cybercrime: law enforcement, security (8) The Media Council of Tanzania. 2012. State of the Media report 2021. and surveillance in the information age. Routledge, London. (9) Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority. 2023. (3) TAMWA (2023). Survey on Sexual Harassment and Sexual Corruption among (10) Schramm, W. 1967. Communication and Change. In Lerner, D. and Schramm, Tanzanian Journalists [Online]. W. (Eds.) Communication and Change in the Developing Countries. Honolulu: East- (4) UN Women (2022). Handbook on Gender Mainstreaming for Gender Equlity West Center Press. Results. (11) Deane, J. 2005. Media, democracy and the public sphere. In Hemer, O. and (5) Pekkonen, S. (2022, February 24). Tanzania Press Freedom plunges into un- Tufte, T. (Eds.) Media and Glocal Change: Rethinking Communication for Develop- precedented crisis. International Press Institute. Retrieved November 3, 2022, ment. 177- 192. Buenos Aires: CLASCO. 85 STATE OF PRESS FREEDOM IN SOUTHERN AFRICA 2023