Pioneers and Perceptions: Tracing Women’s Roles and Gender Stereotypes in Tanzanian Media History.

This study investigates the portrayal of women in Tanzanian mass media, focusing on the implications for gender representation within a postcolonial framework. The primary aim is to explore how historical ideologies, particularly during Julius Nyerere's leadership, have shaped media narratives about women's roles. A qualitative methodology was employed, involving the analysis of 100 articles from major newspapers and 50 television news segments, complemented by interviews with 15 key informants, including media practitioners and academics. Key findings reveal that while there is an increase in the visibility of women in media, significant disparities persist, particularly in health-related narratives that often frame women as victims. This aligns with existing literature that emphasizes the reinforcement of traditional stereotypes. In political contexts, although women's representation appears more empowered, barriers to their agency remain, contrasting with findings from other regions where female politicians are depicted as leaders. The study underscores the importance of feminist media theories in interpreting these representations and highlights the need for reforms in media practices to promote equitable portrayals of women. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on gender representation in postcolonial contexts, emphasizing the role of media in shaping societal perceptions and public discourse on gender issues. Recommendations for future research include exploring the impact of digital media and longitudinal studies to track changes in women's representation over time. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the complexities of gender representation in Tanzanian media, advocating for a more inclusive and empowering narrative for women.