Citizen Journalism and Awareness Creation on Chemical Management in Textile and Tannery Industries in Tanzania
Citizen Journalism and Awareness Creation on Chemical Management in Textile and Tannery Industries in Tanzania
November 2010 to October 2011
ENVIROCARE implemented this one-year project from November 2010 to October 2011, with support from the Tanzania Media Fund, to reduce pollution and health risks associated with toxic chemicals and industrial effluents from textile and tannery industries. The project covered selected industries in Dar es Salaam, Morogoro, Coast and Kilimanjaro Regions, using media and public awareness as key tools for environmental protection.
What We Did
ENVIROCARE trained journalists and editors on industrial chemical management, environmental risks, investigative reporting, and effective communication of chemical pollution issues. Journalists and editors visited selected industries and interacted with industry stakeholders and communities living near industrial sites to gather information and community perspectives.
The project also worked with government institutions, media houses, industries, and civil society organizations to promote better chemical management and cleaner production. Journalists produced and disseminated stories through newspapers, radio and television, helping bring industrial environmental issues to wider public attention.
Project Impact
The project strengthened journalists’ capacity to investigate and report on toxic chemical pollution, an area that had previously received limited media attention. During the reporting period, 13 news articles were published, while programmes were aired through 8 radio stations, television, and special radio broadcasts.
The project also strengthened collaboration between media, industries, government institutions and communities. It highlighted both good industrial practices—such as chemical substitution, recycling, reduced water use and improved waste management—and continuing challenges related to industrial pollution and worker safety.
Lasting Contribution
The project demonstrated the important role of media and public awareness in environmental protection. It created stronger networks between journalists, environmental institutions and industrial stakeholders and promoted greater attention to cleaner production, responsible chemical management, and protection of communities and workers from industrial pollution.
ENVIROCARE ON THE FIELD
Field photos and videos
Mr. Abdalah Mkindi addressing journalists during launching of the project workshop (right); and some workshop participants during discussion (left)
Workshop participants discussing on issues during the session (left) and group photo with editors (right
Selected Journalists during learning session
Mr. Alawi Albeit (with blue color shirt) responding to comments from journalists.