A study titled, ‘Media Sector Mapping in Zanzibar’ was conducted between January and February, this year by Search for Common Ground (SfCG) and Tanzania Media Women’s Association (TAMWA), with aim of understanding of the sources and content of media consumed by the people of Zanzibar.
Over 40 per cent of women surveyed feel they are not informed on issues relating to Zanzibar’s governance, while more than 50 per cent of the women interviewed felt they are not kept informed on good governance policies, the survey reveals.
On the contrary, the study indicates that 45 per cent of men asked, believe they are well informed on government issues in Zanzibar and 40 per cent of the men feel they are well informed on issues of good governance. One central finding was the need to increase government openness in reporting issues.
Participants cite a lack of open communication between civil societies, the media and government; and similarly, respondents emphasised the need for professional journalists. The survey funded by United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is part of an effort to improve the openness, transparency, civic participation, dialogue and interactions between government and citizens.
Apart from gender distinction in accessing information, the report of the findings also indicate that media consumption amongst the youth in Zanzibar covers the use of social media while access to television is high across most age groups (85-89 per cent) with people above the age of 56 years watching less television.
By ISSA YUSSUF, Tanzania Daily News
