Factors behind Corrupt Practices among the Journalists in Tanzania.

Mwakabuku, Lusajo Wilson (2025) Factors behind Corrupt Practices among the Journalists in Tanzania. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

PDF - Submitted Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. Download (1MB)

Abstract

This study investigated the factors that contributed to the perpetuation of corrupt practices among journalists in Tanzania, the benefits they derived from such unethical behaviour, and the impacts of these practices on journalistic integrity, public trust, and democratic accountability. Using a qualitative approach, the study collected data through interviews, document reviews including online sources and FGD with journalists from various media outlets in Tanzania. The descriptive data analysis was framed within the context of Gatekeeping Theory and Utilitarianism, providing insight into how corrupt practices influenced media content and the broader implications for society. The findings revealed that economic challenges, such as low salaries, lack of institutional recognition, and inadequate working conditions, were primary drivers of corruption among Tanzanian journalists. Corrupt practices were further reinforced by the benefits accrued by journalists, including financial gain, career advancement, access to exclusive information, and protection from powerful individuals or institutions. However, these short-term advantages led to long-term negative consequences, including the erosion of journalistic integrity, loss of public trust in the media, suppression of investigative journalism, and the weakening of democratic accountability. The study concluded that while corrupt practices offered immediate personal gains for journalists, they significantly undermined the role of the media as an independent watchdog, contributing to biased reporting and diminished public access to accurate information. To address these challenges, the study recommended improving journalists’ working conditions, strengthening regulatory frameworks, promoting ethical journalism training, supporting investigative reporting, and diversifying media ownership. These measures were deemed essential to restore the credibility of the Tanzanian media and ensure its effective role in fostering democratic governance. Keywords: Corruption in Journalism, Media Integrity, Public Trust, democratic Accountability.

Actions (login required)

View Item