On May 8, 2024, Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC) Zanzibar engaged in a productive feedback session regarding the progress made in the process of reforming media laws. The session, held at the TAMWA Zanzibar (Tungu) Hall, brought together stakeholders from Civil Society Organizations, Journalists, and legal experts.

During the session, feedback was provided on the initial steps taken during the gathering of opinions and contributions from various stakeholders. Efforts by the Tanzania Media Women's Association (TAMWA) Zanzibar and the Zanzibar Journalists Committee (ZAMECO) were discussed, including meetings that convened members of the House of Representatives Committee, the Minister of Information, TAMWA-Zanzibar Executives, and other stakeholders in the legal and media sectors nationwide.

Participants expressed concerns about the pace of progress in obtaining the Proposed Law. However, as of now, there has been no official communication regarding the progress of the new legislation. This continues to be a matter of concern for journalists, as existing laws are perceived as restrictive and inadequate in meeting the needs of press freedom.

In unison, participants at the session agreed to take the following actions:

1. Engagement with the Ministry of Information for Progress Updates to obtain official updates regarding the final stages of the new legislation process.

2. Convening meetings with Duty Bearers and Policy Makers, particularly with the Speaker of the House of Representatives and relevant committees conducting further dialogue, identify challenges, and explore actionable solutions to expedite the reform process.

3. Strengthening collaboration with the Law Reform Commission engaging in meaningful dialogues and understanding the progress made in the reform process to ensure that stakeholders' opinions are actively solicited and integrated into the decision-making process.