Surviving the Print Crisis: Operational Struggle Facing Tanzania Newspapers
Frank Sanga1, Darius Mukiza2
1Frank Elias Sanga, PhD Student, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
2Dr. Darius Mukiza, Lecturer, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Manuscript received on 10 November 2025 | First Revised Manuscript received on 17 November 2025 | Second Revised Manuscript received on 17 February 2026 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 March 2026 | Manuscript published on 30 March 2026 | PP: 1-8 | Volume-5 Issue-3, March 2026 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijmcj.B115905021225 | DOI: 10.54105/ijmcj.B1159.05030326
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© The Authors. Published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP). This is an open-access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: This study examined the operational challenges faced by print media in Tanzania, with a focus on the Mwananchi and Habari Leo newspapers. The theories of Technological Determinism and Gatekeeping guided it. The study employed a qualitative, case-study design; data were collected through interviews with 29 media professionals, two focus groups, and 70 questionnaires completed by media staff, vendors, readers, and industry experts. The data were thematically analyzed, and the results identified five significant challenges facing print media operation in Tanzania, including: declining journalism quality due to staff layoffs and rushed stories; digital disruption leading to changing consumer behaviour from print to digital; financial constraints caused by decreased circulation, sales, and advertising revenue; an unfriendly media legal framework; and political and business pressures. The study recommends adopting digital technology to improve journalistic standards, increase flexibility, and attract digital consumers. It also advocates for a comprehensive policy review to promote a free, competitive, and sustainable media sector. Specifically, it urges the government to revise restrictive media laws to support the survival, independence, and growth of Tanzania’s print media, striking a balance between technological advancements and robust protections for press freedom while maintaining the quality and standards of published news and information.
Keywords: Media Sustainability, Technological Determinism, Gatekeeping, Digital Disruption, Tanzanian Print Media.
Scope of the Article: Social Media