Zanzibar Communication Excellence Awards 2025: IPRT & Government Unite to Empower Journalists
In a landmark move to uplift communication standards in Zanzibar, the Institute of Public Relations Tanzania (IPRT) has officially partnered with the Zanzibar Treasury Registrar to launch the Zanzibar Communication Excellence Awards (ZCEA). The awards, scheduled for July 5, 2025, mark a significant milestone in strengthening media capacity and promoting ethical journalism in East Africa.
Objective: Build Journalistic Capacity for Development
Signed in Dar es Salaam by IPRT Director Dr. Titus Solomon and Zanzibar Treasury Registrar Mr. Waheed Muhammad Ibrahim Sanya, this strategic partnership sets the stage for transformational change in the field of journalism and communication.
“Our goal is to provide these professionals with the tools needed to deliver accurate, timely, and development-focused communication,” said Dr. Titus.
He emphasized that the collaboration will amplify the voices of communities by promoting effective coverage of government development projects across the Isles. This, in turn, enables timely responses and interventions by relevant authorities.
Awards Ceremony Set for July 2025 in Zanzibar
A grand launch event will be held in Zanzibar ahead of the awards ceremony. During this event, organizers will unveil:
- Award categories
- Eligibility requirements
- Cash prize structures
To ensure readiness, specialized training programs will be rolled out for journalists and communication officers. Invitations will be sent to media houses nationwide to encourage wide participation.
IPRT’s National Impact in Strategic Communication Training
Dr. Titus highlighted IPRT’s impressive track record, noting its ongoing commitment to journalism training in Tanzania. Some key achievements include:
- Training over 1,600 Tanzania Police Force officers
- Conducting workshops for institutions such as the Zanzibar Revenue Authority (ZRA), Zanzibar Bureau of Standards (ZBS), Zanzibar Teachers’ Union (ZATU), and the Tanzania Tourism Board (TTB)
“Our training programs in strategic communication and good governance span both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar,” Dr. Titus noted. “We’re proud of the impact we’ve achieved so far.”
Awards to Inspire Quality Reporting on Government Projects
Mr. Waheed Sanya emphasized the importance of promoting ethical journalism that supports national development.
“This partnership is a stepping stone toward equipping journalists and information officers with the tools to effectively report on key government initiatives,” he said.
He added that public and private sector leaders in Zanzibar will also benefit from training in strategic communication, which will support transparent governance and stronger institutional accountability.
ZEEA Executive Applauds Media Empowerment Efforts
Supporting the initiative, Zanzibar Economic Empowerment Agency (ZEEA) Executive Director Mr. Juma Burhan Mohamed commended IPRT and the Treasury Registrar’s Office:
“When the public receives verified information—especially about government projects—it not only empowers citizens but also enables leaders to respond with precision,” he stated.
Mr. Mohamed praised the initiative for upholding journalistic standards and strengthening the relationship between the government and its people.
Why the Zanzibar Communication Excellence Awards Matter
The ZCEA comes at a time when the role of the media is more vital than ever. In a digital-first world, ensuring that information is accurate, timely, and constructive is key to:
- Driving socio-economic development
- Promoting transparency and accountability
- Encouraging civic engagement and public trust
By recognizing and rewarding excellence in journalism, the ZCEA not only highlights individual and organizational achievements but also creates a blueprint for responsible reporting across the region.
As preparations for the Zanzibar Communication Excellence Awards 2025 unfold, media professionals are encouraged to:
- Stay informed via the official awards website
- Participate in upcoming training opportunities
- Submit entries that reflect impactful, ethical, and development-focused reporting
Together, we can redefine the future of public communication in Zanzibar, elevate journalistic standards, and celebrate the voices that drive change.
