Tanzanian media professionals are currently hesitant to adopt AI technologies due to a lack of awareness, training, and concerns over misinformation and job security. A study by UNESCO highlights the need for more structured AI education in journalism, as many practitioners are keen to learn but lack resources. The slow integration of AI is compounded by a mindset that views AI as competition; thus, efforts are needed to better understand AI’s advantages while addressing ethical implications.
The media landscape in Tanzania, similar to many regions in Africa and globally, grapples with the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI). A recent study, supported by UNESCO, illustrates the hesitancy among media professionals regarding AI due to limited awareness and concerns over job security and ethical issues. The prevailing dialogue highlights both the integration of AI within media operations and the risk of increasing misinformation and disinformation.
William Shao, a seasoned Tanzanian journalist, remarked, “The power of AI is mental. It’s making fake stuff look real and real stuff look fake, turning lies into the truth and the truth into lies.” This observation encapsulates the anxieties present in Tanzanian newsrooms about AI’s influence on authenticity and credibility in journalism.
The report titled “The State of Artificial Intelligence for Media Development in Tanzania” was created by Tech & Media Convergency in cooperation with UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication. It reveals that journalists desire more training in AI and the establishment of clear policy guidelines for its responsible use.
Notably, 95 percent of respondents expressed a strong interest in learning about AI as a journalistic tool, yet access to structured training remains limited. Furthermore, only 22 percent of newsroom managers have initiated discussions regarding AI policy implementation. In contrast, 73 percent acknowledged AI’s transformative potential, with 40 percent expressing concerns about its role in aiding misinformation, particularly regarding political propaganda.
Furthermore, roughly 84 percent of the interviewed individuals believe that AI proficiency should be prioritized in the curricula of journalism educational programs in Tanzania. The report argues for AI’s role in enhancing newsroom efficiency rather than supplanting human journalists, proposing that media organizations embrace proactive AI integration while addressing misinformation and bias concerns.
The study reveals the evident need for AI training tailored to local journalism challenges, as many existing digital courses are Western-centric. The lack of relevant training prevents the practical application of AI advancements within Tanzania.
Additionally, the slow adoption of AI tools is attributed to a pervasive mindset that regards AI as a competitor instead of an aid. It highlights the importance of trust in AI applications, as well as clarity regarding AI’s role in journalism practices. The report warns against the misuse of AI-generated content for propagandistic purposes.
Moreover, fears persist that automation may jeopardize traditional journalistic roles, particularly in content creation and fact-checking. Distrust in AI transparency and the potential biases within AI-generated outputs further complicate its acceptance among journalists. The report notes that despite recommendations for developing AI integration guidelines by a government committee, effective action remains absent, hence placing the onus on media professionals to adapt.
The reluctance of Tanzanian media to fully embrace AI is marked by high demand for training, ethical concerns, and a lack of structured educational programs. While AI presents opportunities for increased efficiency, the persistent fear of misinformation, job displacement, and mistrust in technology remains prevalent. For effective AI integration, a concerted effort is needed from both the media sector and educational institutions to develop tailored training and clear policies, fostering a balanced understanding of AI’s potential benefits and risks.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
