In a video shared online, Madowo explained that he had planned to travel to Tanzania to report on the polls but realized that obtaining media accreditation from the government is extremely difficult.
Without this official permission, foreign journalists risk breaking the law by reporting on events in the country.
“The truth is that Tanzania does not welcome independent, critical reporting,” Madowo stated.
He added that the situation has not changed under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, with press freedom remaining tightly controlled, similar to the restrictions experienced during former President John Magufuli’s tenure.
While Tanzanian authorities allow tourists from Kenya to enter without a visa, Madowo emphasized that visiting as a tourist does not grant permission to report.
“The truth is that Tanzania does not welcome independent, critical reporting,” Madowo stated.
He added that the situation has not changed under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, with press freedom remaining tightly controlled, similar to the restrictions experienced during former President John Magufuli’s tenure.
While Tanzanian authorities allow tourists from Kenya to enter without a visa, Madowo emphasized that visiting as a tourist does not grant permission to report.
Attempting to do so could lead to arrest, deportation, or other severe consequences.
Local journalists, according to Madowo, are also facing increasing harassment, intimidation, and sometimes physical violence, making independent reporting in the country a high-risk activity.
Local journalists, according to Madowo, are also facing increasing harassment, intimidation, and sometimes physical violence, making independent reporting in the country a high-risk activity.
Several Tanzanian reporters were denied accreditation for the election, while many international journalists either had their requests refused or received no response.
The October 29 elections were marred by reports of protests, arrests, and alleged internet shutdowns, with civil servants directed to work from home in response to security concerns.
The October 29 elections were marred by reports of protests, arrests, and alleged internet shutdowns, with civil servants directed to work from home in response to security concerns.
Clashes were reported in major cities, including Dar es Salaam, highlighting the tense post-election atmosphere.
Larry Madowo, known for his fearless reporting across Africa, has previously covered major events such as Kenya’s Gen Z protests, Nigeria’s #EndSARS movement, the Sudanese revolution, and the Ethiopian civil conflict.
Larry Madowo, known for his fearless reporting across Africa, has previously covered major events such as Kenya’s Gen Z protests, Nigeria’s #EndSARS movement, the Sudanese revolution, and the Ethiopian civil conflict.
His work often focuses on justice, governance, and press freedom, ensuring African stories reach global audiences with depth and context.
“Reporting in Africa can still be a courageous act, and access to information remains tightly controlled,” Madowo noted.
“Reporting in Africa can still be a courageous act, and access to information remains tightly controlled,” Madowo noted.
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