Tanzania
Sector 2:
2.1

The media landscape is characterised by diversity,
independence and sustainability

A wide range of sources of information (print,
broadcasting, internet) is available and affordable to
citizens.

ANALYSIS:
The media landscape in Tanzania is characterised by diversity, independence and sustainability. Huge numbers of different papers (at
an average cost of Tshs.300.00 per copy) are found mostly in Dar
es Salaam City and other large urban areas. In rural settings availability is almost non-existent and this is attributed to affordability.
The living wage is currently estimated at Tshs. 300,000.00 while
the average income is Tshs. 60,000.00 per month for those who are
employed.
There are about 18 dailies including 2 evening editions and 41 weeklies available mostly in Dar es Salaam. The highest circulation countrywide stands at 6,000 copies.There are 5 English language papers
with a potential of 15,000 readers, while the bulk is in Kiswahili
addressed at a potential 50,000 buyers.
Most newspaper houses either distribute their newspapers themselves or use other means such as subscriptions, courier services
and various forms of public transport. South African newspapers
appear to be enjoying better distribution than the local product.

Tanzania mainland has about 37 FM radio stations country- wide.
Private and religious organisations also take part in providing these
services. The Catholic Church in particular plays a leading role in
both broadcasting and newspaper distribution. Tanzania has 1 commercial radio and two community radios (Orkonerei and Sengerema), and 7 radio stations are operating on Zanzibar island.
African Media Barometer - Tanzania 2006

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