• Despite the benefits of innovative technological tools, training related to Ai and similar technologies remains behind.

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A new study on Artificial Intelligence adoption in Tanzanian media has found that the majority of journalists are willing to learn AI, revealing the highest demand for structured learning opportunities in the newsroom.

The study report titled “The State of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Media Development (AI4MD) in the Tanzanian Context”, said out of 350 journalists, editors, and media practitioners surveyed, nearly all or 95% of journalists expressed willingness to participate in AI training in order to incorporate in their daily activities.

AI is one of the most needed skills needed in the modern newsrooms today alongside Data journalism, fact-checking and multimedia storytelling due to ongoing digital transformation that has changed the whole news production process.

Despite the benefits of innovative technological tools, training related to Ai and similar technologies remains behind.

“However, access to AI tools, training resources, and awareness pose significant challenges, with many journalists perceiving AI tools as costly or inaccessible,” reveal part of the study conducted by Technology and Media Convergence (TMC) in collaboration with UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC).

Ready for AI but rarely discuss it

The report further revealed that while half or 53% of newsroom leadership is prepared to adopt AI, only one in five or 22% have formally discussed AI policies. AI training, the report said, remains largely informal or self-taught.

A detailed analysis showed there is a serious digital divide in AI adoption, with journalists on digital platforms more likely to use AI tools compared to their counterparts in traditional media.

While AI presents opportunities for the media, its adoption in Tanzania remains limited due to low awareness, inadequate skills, ethical concerns, and accessibility challenges.

TMC Chief Executive Officer Asha Abinallah recommended the development of comprehensive AI guidelines for newsrooms, expansion of AI training initiatives, and integration of AI modules into journalism curricula.

Media organizations are encouraged to foster partnerships with AI developers and educational institutions to enhance accessibility and affordability of AI tools, and to address AI-related misinformation and ethical concerns to ensure responsible AI adoption.

Experts and media professionals sharing their insight on the Artificial Intelligence for Media Development (AI4MD) Report. The discussion focused on AI’s impact on media, innovation, ethics, and the future of journalism in the digital age. Photo | Technology and Media Convergence (TMC).

Training key in accelerating adopt AI in newsroom

Nukta Africa, a leading digital media and technology company in Tanzania, has embraced AI to enhance its operations, including editorial activities such as story writing, image generation, and translation.

As part of its core focus on training, the company has developed comprehensive learning materials, including manuals and syllabi, to equip both its staff and aspiring media professionals with AI skills. These advancements stem from extensive research and participation in specialized training programs by its trainers and researchers.

Last year, Nukta Africa, which owns four digital news outlets, launched the first course on AI application in media and communication in Tanzania as part of its 2024–2028 strategic plan of advancing quality production of news by using advanced technologies and data.

Lilian Shirima, a representative of the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, said the government is committed to advancing AI localization in Tanzania and concrete actions will be taken to integrate AI into the country’s media and technology landscape.

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