Tanzanian media professionals are hesitant to embrace artificial intelligence due to lack of awareness, fears of misinformation, and job security issues. A study from UNESCO indicates the industry needs more training on AI, and while interest in AI tools is high, structured programs are limited. Concerns about AI ethics and its role in misinformation remain prevalent.
In Tanzania, media professionals are grappling with the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in their industry. A recent study, supported by UNESCO, reveals a landscape of uncertainty concerning AI, characterized by insufficient awareness, apprehensions about job security, and ethical dilemmas. While AI has already infiltrated their operations, concerns about its role in escalating misinformation dominate the discussions within newsrooms.
William Shao, an experienced journalist, articulates the anxiety surrounding AI, stating, “The power of AI is mental. It’s making fake stuff look real and real stuff look fake, turning lies into the truth and the truth into lies.” This sentiment encapsulates the ongoing struggle to navigate the benefits and pitfalls of AI technology.
The study titled “The State of Artificial Intelligence for Media Development in Tanzania,” conducted by Tech & Media Convergency (TMC) in partnership with UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication, outlines the necessity for comprehensive training and policy frameworks regarding AI. Among the 350 interviewed journalists, editors, and staff, 95 percent expressed a desire for more AI knowledge, yet many reported a lack of access to systematic training initiatives.
Although 73 percent of respondents acknowledged the potential of AI to revolutionize journalism, a significant 40 percent were particularly concerned about its ability to spread misinformation, especially through political propaganda. Additionally, 84 percent suggested incorporating AI skills into the curriculum of journalism schools and colleges, highlighting the urgent need for educational reform.
The report emphasizes that AI should enhance workflow efficiency rather than replace human intelligence. It recommends that media organizations adopt AI tools while addressing necessary safeguards against misinformation and bias. AI can improve research, automate regular content tasks, and reinforce the reliability of news output if implemented conscientiously.
Nevertheless, a lack of training specifically designed for Tanzanian journalists complicates the integration of AI. The majority of available courses are Western-centric and overlook local nuances, including access to relevant datasets and tools in Swahili. This gap results in a disconnect between global AI advancements and their local application.
The slow uptake of AI also stems from a mentality that views AI as a rival rather than an ally in journalism. Journalists express hesitations regarding the trustworthiness of AI systems and their utility in editorial practices. Concerns about AI-generated content, such as deep fakes and misinformation, further contribute to this reticence.
The report advocates for immediate action from media organizations to pursue AI integration while simultaneously ensuring editorial integrity and audience trust. Despite recommendations from a prior government report for crafting guidelines on AI integration, there has been a lack of governmental follow-through, leaving implementation within the hands of media professionals.
The media landscape in Tanzania faces unique challenges regarding the adoption of artificial intelligence. While there is eagerness for training and understanding of AI, concerns about misinformation, job security, and the integrity of journalism persist. Without structured education and policy frameworks, the potential benefits of AI remain underexplored. A proactive approach, embracing AI as a tool rather than a competitor, is essential for the evolution of journalism in Tanzania.
Original Source: www.zawya.com
