The role of television in promoting women’s participation in politics in Tanzania: A case of TBC 1 and Star TV
Abstract
The matter of gender inclusion in Tanzania has been a longstanding concern, dating back to the early 1960s until the mid-1980s. During this period, the ruling party in Tanganyika, initially known as the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU) and later as Chama cha Mapinduzi, witnessed the active involvement of women in political activities. Notable figures such as Bibi Titi Mohamed and Anna Abdallah emerged as prominent champions of women's political participation. This study focused on examining the role of electronic media in promoting women’s participation in politics in Tanzania, a case study of TBC1 and Star Tv. The study employed a qualitative approach because the study was designed to use a case study, which is a strategy of inquiry whereby the researcher explores in depth a program, event, activity, process, or one or more individuals. The study was guided by three research objectives, namely, to determine programmes in TBC 1 and Star TV that promote women’s participation in politics. To examine issues presented regarding women and politics in the programmes of TBC1 and Star TV. To determine views from women politicians on how TBC1 and Star TV contributed to their political engagement. The study employed 22 sample sizes: 15 from political parties, 1 officer from ORPP, 4 from media practitioners and 2 from women audiences. The study used an interview guide to gather information from respondents. The study found that only one media outlet has a program on women's empowerment in politics, namely, TBC, but other media outlets interviewed do not have direct programs on women's empowerment in politics but have programs on women's empowerment in other sectors. While politics is the key to decision-making, the media have been overlooking it. Empowerment of women in politics will enable them to liberate themselves in other sectors. The study concluded and recommended that the media make a great contribution in preparing, promoting, and giving an adequate platform to fulfil women’s political dreams. Women have been fighting for their rights for a long time. The great efforts made by the associations of women journalists in ensuring that women obtain a political position and are recognized in society are an important part of this success achieved by women, although not on a large scale.
How to Cite This Article
Frank Shija, Dr. F Ng’atigwa (2024). The role of television in promoting women’s participation in politics in Tanzania: A case of TBC 1 and Star TV . International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE), 5(1), 288-299.