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Check FAQAbout Janet
Janet Otieno-Prosper is an award winning journalist based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. She holds a Masters degree in Communication Studies from The University of Nairobi.She developed passion for writing at a tender age. Janet joined the media industry (Kenya News Agency) as a News Reporter in 2006 while awaiting her graduation. Immediately after graduating with Bachelors of Arts with Education (Double major in English and Literature) from Kampala International University, she joined editorial desk of the mainstream media (Times News Services - Publisher of both Kenya and Sunday Times newspapers) where she worked as a Sub-Editor/Writer. Janet has also worked for Netherlands based Africa News as a reporter and served as an Editor of African Executive magazine. Janet also worked for Africa Review, Nation Media Group's digital magazine (www.africareview.com) as an editor/writer in charge of Southern Africa region since its launch in 2009 until May 2014. She currently works at The Citizen, Tanzania as Features Editor of six magazines (Your Health, Success, The Beat, Woman, Sound Living and Young citizen). Janet is passionate about issues that are pertinent to Africa like environment and health, agriculture and food security, women and children affairs, human rights and development. In 2013, Janet was honoured by the United Nations for her articles on food security in Africa. She is a member of Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) and Kenya Union of Journalists and registered as an editor by the Media Council of Kenya. Janet believes that journalists can reposition Africa through setting an agenda for positive action. Twitter:@JanetOtieno
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Even cancer can’t stop her
Durriya Kapasi, a Tanzanian woman, faced a life-altering challenge when diagnosed with stage 3 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in December 2014. Despite the severe side effects of chemotherapy, she put her life and dreams on hold to fight the disease. Durriya's story aligns with the theme of International Women's Day, 'Be Bold for change'. After overcoming cancer, she resumed her passion for writing, having previously published on Wattpad.com and won the Watty awards in 2013. Durriya's journey through cancer treatment at Apollo Hospital in Ahmedabad was supported by her family and an online support group. Post-recovery, she advocates for a positive mindset, proper diet, and following medical advice for other cancer patients. Durriya has since completed her book 'Once Upon A Genie', which will be published by Half Baked Beans and plans to launch it in Tanzania. Dr. Crispin Kahesa from the Ocean Road Cancer Institute emphasizes the importance of regular cancer screenings.
African Ringer’s bell gets louder
African Ringer, a newsletter founded during the Covid-19 pandemic, focuses on gender-sensitive content, particularly issues affecting women, children, and health in Africa. The initiative, driven by the passion of its founders, aims to provide in-depth, solution-oriented journalism. The Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY's Entrepreneurial Journalism Creators Program played a pivotal role in shaping the project's business model and approach. African Ringer aspires to inspire future generations by introducing journalism clubs in schools and creating a children's corner to nurture young minds.
Way out for children during pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted children in Tanzania, affecting their health, education, and overall well-being. Experts emphasize the importance of mental health support, continued vaccinations, and maintaining educational routines. Recommendations include psychological preparation, improved water infrastructure in schools, and the adoption of online learning to mitigate future disruptions. Stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and the Ministry of Education, are urged to collaborate for a resilient educational framework.
Protecting education in the face of Covid-19
The article discusses the significant impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on education in Tanzania, highlighting the challenges faced by students, parents, and teachers. It underscores the mental and educational setbacks experienced by children due to prolonged school closures and the lack of parental guidance during the break. Teachers and parents share their observations on the behavioral changes and learning gaps in children. The article also addresses the economic hardships faced by private school teachers and the need for improved online education systems and emergency response plans to ensure continuity in education during crises.
A conversation with Asseny Muro on gender equality
Asseny Muro, a prominent advocate for women's rights in Tanzania, reflects on her extensive journey in promoting gender equality. As a founder of the Tanzania Gender Networking Group, she emphasizes the importance of intergenerational collaboration to sustain and advance the women's rights movement. Muro highlights significant achievements, such as policy influence and gender-responsive budgeting, while acknowledging ongoing challenges and the need for innovative strategies and partnerships. She stresses the critical role of young activists and technology in accelerating progress towards gender equality and calls for continuous efforts to address structural obstacles like patriarchy.
Gender based violence in the digital space
Tanzania joined the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, focusing on the rise of online violence against women and the need for effective prevention measures. The campaign highlights the importance of gender equality for societal benefits. The OHCHR report emphasizes the role of ICT in empowering women and eliminating online violence. Julius Mbilinyi, Director for Gender, discussed the Cybercrimes Act and the National Plan of Action to protect against online crimes. Dr. Hezron Zacharia Onditi from Dar Es Salaam University College of Education presented research on the digital behavior of Tanzanian youth and the risks of cyberbullying and online child sexual exploitation. The seminar aimed to sensitize Members of Parliament on these issues and promote digital literacy for safe and responsible internet use.
When workplace becomes a den of sexual harassment
Sexual harassment in the workplace remains a pervasive issue, often unreported due to fear of retaliation and entrenched patriarchal culture. Victims, predominantly women, face hostile work environments and difficult choices between their dignity and livelihood. The article calls for transparent recruitment processes, strong anti-harassment policies, confidential reporting mechanisms, and cultural audits to combat this issue. The Tanzania Media Women’s Association's survey highlights the urgency of addressing sexual harassment, advocating for collective efforts from employers and journalists to raise awareness and support victims.
The silent monster that is workplace sexual harassment
Workplace sexual harassment is a pervasive issue in Tanzania, affecting both women and men. Many victims remain silent due to fear of retaliation or lack of action from authorities. Organizations like Tanzania Media Women’s Association, Msichana Initiative, and Tanzania Women Lawyers Association are working to raise awareness and provide support. The article highlights the need for better reporting mechanisms, legal awareness, and cultural change to address this issue effectively.
Woman surgeon making impact in Tanzania
Dr. Zaitun Bokhary, a prominent paediatric surgeon at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) in Tanzania, has made significant strides in a field traditionally dominated by men. She has been instrumental in performing complex surgeries, including the separation of conjoined twins and other rare procedures. Dr. Bokhary is dedicated to making Tanzania a center of excellence in paediatric surgeries and encourages more women to enter the field. Despite her demanding career, she balances her professional and family life, supported by her husband and three children. Dr. Bokhary is also passionate about mentoring junior surgeons and empowering women through education and health initiatives.
Pushing beyond the trade walls to unite nations
Women involved in cross-border trade in East Africa face numerous challenges, including corruption, sexual harassment, and poor infrastructure. Despite these obstacles, they significantly contribute to regional GDP growth and economic integration. Organizations like the Tanzania Women Chamber of Commerce and UN Women highlight the need for gender-sensitive interventions and better infrastructure to support these traders. The article features personal stories of women traders who navigate these challenges and calls for improved trade facilitation and access to financial resources.
My breastfeeding journey: A bond beyond the womb
The article highlights the author's personal breastfeeding journey, emphasizing the challenges and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding. It underscores the importance of support from family, healthcare providers, and employers in ensuring successful breastfeeding. The narrative includes insights from various experts and organizations advocating for breastfeeding, highlighting its nutritional and health benefits for both mother and child. The author also discusses the societal and workplace challenges faced by breastfeeding mothers and calls for increased awareness and support to improve breastfeeding rates in Tanzania.
Pregnancy malaria vaccine passes test in humans
A vaccine against pregnancy malaria has shown promising results in its first human test, conducted by researchers at the University of Copenhagen. The phase one clinical trial, published in Clinical Infectious Diseases, confirmed the vaccine's safety and its ability to induce the desired antibody response. The next step involves testing the vaccine's efficacy in preventing pregnancy malaria in African women. Malaria during pregnancy poses significant risks, including maternal anemia and low birth-weight infants, as noted by the World Health Organization.
The struggle to juggle
Women in society are increasingly facing the burden of both household chores and financial responsibilities. The trend shows that women are not only underpaid compared to men but also predominantly handle child rearing and housework while financially supporting their families. This leads to living from paycheck to paycheck and stress that affects relationships. The article suggests that some men have become irresponsible, contributing to the financial strain on women.
Breastfeeding: how we can break through barriers
In Tanzania, challenges to optimal breastfeeding practices include short maternity leaves, workplace conditions, public disapproval, myths, and lack of support. Experts and mothers in Mwanza and Dar es Salaam discuss these barriers and suggest solutions such as extended maternity leave, breastfeeding stations at work, and public education to foster positive attitudes. Health professionals emphasize the importance of breastfeeding for child health and development. The media is urged to raise awareness, and the government is called to support working mothers and promote breastfeeding. The formula industry's influence is low due to regulations, and there are suggestions to establish breast milk banks. The article highlights the need for comprehensive support for breastfeeding mothers to improve children's health in Tanzania.
Tanzania should strive to guarantee child nutrition
Tanzania faces significant nutritional challenges, with 34% of children under five stunted and 33% suffering from vitamin A deficiency. The article emphasizes the importance of breastfeeding and using locally available foods to ensure balanced diets for children. It calls for awareness campaigns involving health workers and suggests that the Tanzanian government regulate the food and beverage industry to reduce unhealthy products and promote nutritious foods. The piece advocates for comprehensive education for parents on child nutrition from ante-natal to post-natal stages.
Tanzania should strive to guarantee child nutrition
Tanzania faces significant nutritional challenges, with high rates of stunting and vitamin A deficiency among children. The article emphasizes the importance of breastfeeding and using locally available foods to ensure balanced diets. It calls for awareness campaigns involving health workers and urges the Tanzanian government to regulate the food and beverage industry to reduce unhealthy products and promote nutritious foods. The text advocates for comprehensive education for parents and responsible practices by food companies to support children's long-term health.
How work holds back mothers from breastfeeding in Tanzania
Working mothers in Tanzania face significant challenges in balancing breastfeeding with their job demands, despite mother-friendly laws. Stella Mutta and Monica Shabani's experiences highlight the difficulties of taking breastfeeding breaks and the lack of employer support. The WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, but many Tanzanian mothers are forced to choose between their jobs and breastfeeding, with some introducing formula milk prematurely. The article discusses the health benefits of breastfeeding for both children and mothers, the legal rights of lactating mothers, and the infrastructural and societal barriers they face. It calls for better enforcement of laws, employer compliance, and supportive environments at work and home. The article is part of a series produced with support from the International Centre for Journalists (ICFJ).
Breast milk: The first food every child needs
The article explores the importance of breastfeeding and nutrition in Tanzania, highlighting the experiences of mothers in Mwanza and the advice of health professionals. It emphasizes the benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers, including nutritional adequacy, immunity boost, and emotional bonding. Tanzanian communities have traditional diets for nursing mothers, and health facilities like Bugando Hospital and Msasani Peninsula Hospital provide support and education on breastfeeding. The article calls for balanced diets, rest, support, and awareness campaigns to make breastfeeding a universally accepted practice in Tanzania. It is part of a special project on breastfeeding supported by the International Centre for Journalists.
World Pneumonia Day: Time to prevent avoidable child deaths
World Pneumonia Day aims to raise awareness about pneumonia as a leading cause of child mortality, killing nearly one million children under five annually. Established by WHO in 2009, the day promotes interventions to prevent and treat pneumonia. Despite being preventable and treatable, pneumonia remains a significant threat, especially in poor households. Tanzania, ranked 15th globally for pneumonia and diarrheal child deaths in 2016, shows strong political will to reduce child mortality through high-impact immunization programs, though access to healthcare remains a challenge for impoverished families.
Avoid online shaming
The article addresses the rising issue of online shaming of women, particularly through the sharing of explicit videos on social media. It highlights the long-lasting negative effects on the victims and their families, urging both women to make wise decisions and individuals to refrain from sharing such content.
Dealing with child abuse at preschool
The article addresses the issue of child abuse in preschools, focusing on a case in Dar es Salaam where a child reported being mistreated by school staff. Parents and experts emphasize the importance of communication between parents and children, as well as between parents and school authorities. They advocate for calm and constructive approaches to resolving such issues, highlighting the psychological impact of abuse on young children. The article includes advice from educators and child development experts on how to handle and prevent such situations.
Pediatricians warn against heating baby food in plastic
Warming food in plastic containers in the microwave can release harmful chemicals that may affect children's health and development, according to a new policy statement in the journal Paediatrics. The report, led by Dr. Leonardo Trasande, highlights the risks of chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) in disrupting hormones and causing health issues such as obesity, autism, and ADHD. It calls for stricter food safety regulations and recommends using alternatives to plastic, such as glass or stainless steel, to minimize exposure.
Celebrating a great mother
A mother from Lushoto is celebrated for her unwavering dedication to ensuring her 12-year-old son with special needs receives an education. Despite societal stigma and abandonment by her in-laws, she prioritizes her son's education, performing menial jobs to afford transportation and personally assisting him at school. Her determination and resilience are highlighted as she navigates daily challenges to support her child's learning.
Working mothers need support to breastfeed
The article emphasizes the importance of breastfeeding for early childhood development and maternal health, urging the Tanzanian government to strengthen health and workplace systems to support breastfeeding mothers. It criticizes aggressive marketing of breast milk substitutes by multinationals and calls for policies that empower working mothers, including extended maternity leave. The Beijing Declaration and the Platform for Action are highlighted as frameworks supporting women's rights to balance breastfeeding with their professional lives.
Leaving positive fingerprints on a child’s brain
The article emphasizes the importance of early childhood stimulation for cognitive, physical, emotional, and social development. Lisa Ferla from the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation (EGPAF) highlights the need for parents to interact and play with their children from birth, using everyday routines to foster development. The lack of early stimulation can have long-term negative impacts on a child's potential. The article also references studies and evidence supporting the benefits of early childhood development interventions, especially for vulnerable children.
DEAR DIARY: Widows also have rights
In Africa, widows often face harassment from relatives seeking to claim property following their husband's death. Cultural norms frequently do not support a woman's right to inherit property, leaving widows with children to care for but without the means to do so. The article calls for societal change to protect the rights of women and children, suggesting that widows should be given priority regarding property inheritance to support the deceased's children.
DEAR DIARY: The internet remembers
The article discusses the lasting impact of social media posts, emphasizing that the internet does not forget. It advises caution when sharing online, as past posts can resurface and potentially harm one's reputation and career. The piece highlights the importance of considering the long-term implications of online behavior.
Let's Talk About Menstrual Hygiene
The article emphasizes the importance of menstrual hygiene, advising women to change sanitary towels regularly to avoid health issues such as urinary and vaginal infections, as well as rashes. It recommends changing pads every 3 to 4 hours, tampons every two hours, and practicing hand hygiene before and after changing pads. It also suggests carrying a pad for emergencies, especially for those with irregular periods, and stresses the importance of drinking plenty of water and maintaining overall cleanliness.
Three things Tanzania is doing to lower maternal and neonatal mortality
Tanzania is actively working to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality by enhancing obstetric surgical services, developing specific health policies, and upgrading health centers. The government has upgraded 208 health centers to provide comprehensive emergency obstetric and neonatal care, including blood transfusion services. Efforts are also being made to train more staff in anesthesia services to address the shortage of anesthetists. These initiatives aim to meet WHO standards and improve accessibility to safe surgical care, ultimately reducing maternal and neonatal deaths.
Media stakeholders at Nairobi WIN summit call for more women in news
Speakers at the Women in News (WIN) Africa Summit in Nairobi emphasized the need for gender diversity in the media industry. The summit, attended by 140 participants from various African countries, highlighted the importance of women in media management roles and news coverage. Key speakers, including Michael Golden of Wan-Ifra, Lisa Macleod of Digital Times Media Group, and Catherine Gicheru of Code for Kenya, discussed the challenges and opportunities for women in media. The event also addressed issues like sexual harassment and the need for media companies to focus on audience preferences and revenue diversification.
How second-hand smoke hurts children
Second-hand smoke poses significant health risks to children, causing respiratory infections, asthma attacks, pneumonia, and even sudden infant death syndrome. Experts from The Aga Khan Hospital and Muhimbili National Hospital emphasize the need to protect children from such exposure. Global studies and organizations like WHO and CDC highlight the severe impact of tobacco smoke on child health, especially in low and middle-income countries. Despite bans on public smoking, exposure remains high in places like Tanzania and Bangladesh. Urgent measures are needed to reduce second-hand smoke exposure and protect children's health.
DEAR DIARY: When parents separate
When parents separate, the impact on children is often overlooked. Decisions regarding child custody and upbringing are frequently not made during the breakup, leading to one parent taking the child and blocking the other. Legal redress is seldom sought for the child's wellbeing. Various organizations offer professional advice on co-parenting and visiting rights. The Children Act 2009 stipulates that courts decide child custody, with children under seven typically living with their mother, and the other parent having visitation rights unless it interferes with the child's education.
How we kept pace with health data journalism training in South Africa
Journalists from various African countries attended a health data reporting training in Cape Town, South Africa, coinciding with the 17th World Conference on Tobacco or Health. The workshop, organized by Vital Strategies and Bloomberg Data for Health Initiative, focused on practical skills for interpreting and visualizing public health data. Participants, including six Tanzanian journalists, found the training enriching and formed a continental association to monitor progress on tobacco-related assignments.
Dear Diary
The article highlights the significant contributions of women in the technology sector, particularly in Tanzania. It emphasizes the growing presence and impact of women in tech, showcasing their passion, creativity, and innovative solutions to societal problems. The narrative challenges the traditional male-dominated view of the tech industry and celebrates the achievements of Tanzanian women who are driving innovation and making the world a better place.
Multi-million business built from waste paper
Allen Kimambo, a Tanzanian entrepreneur and environmental activist, founded Zaidi Enterprises, a company that collects and supplies cardboard paper waste for recycling to Tanzania's largest paper factory, Paper Mill. Starting in Dar es Salaam, the business has expanded to multiple regions, creating over 100 jobs and generating an annual turnover of over Sh200 million. Kimambo's efforts have saved trees, energy, and reduced landfill waste, while also paying taxes and cleaning the environment. He has received recognition as a Tony Elumelu Entrepreneur and aims to expand operations to other African countries and export to India. Kimambo has a history of social entrepreneurship, including co-founding the Masomoni Education Center and working with Unilever on environmental projects.
DEAR DIARY: We need breastfeeding stations
Breastfeeding is often overlooked globally, but in Tanzania, there is a push to emphasize its importance. Despite government efforts to support exclusive breastfeeding for six months, challenges remain, such as lack of safe places for mothers to pump and store milk. The article advocates for the establishment of breastfeeding stations in public places and workplaces to support nursing mothers, which could positively impact maternal and child health and the economy.
Never give up on your dreams
Saida Karoli, a renowned Tanzanian singer, experienced significant success in the early 2000s but faced setbacks due to bad deals and minimal support from promoters. After a period of absence, she made a successful comeback. The article encourages readers to persevere through challenges and to remain determined in pursuing their dreams, emphasizing that determination can lead to achieving goals despite difficulties.
The video is a promo of our health stories. There are these doctors in Tanzania who have come up with an innovation aiming to shape people's perception about cancer. They use social media as cancer information ambassadors.
The article addresses the issue of women and elusive land rights in Tanzania and beyond. It calls on African governments to encourage women to secure access to legal redress over land ownership. This is because land ownership gives women some social status and dignity.
The video is about Djibouti, a country with harsh climatic condition but rich in culture and also captures economic activities in Djibouti. The rough mountainous terrain offers nothing by way of scenery save for volcanic rocks but there is something interesting on how streets are deserted at noon. The streets are deserted, shops and government offices are closed, not for afternoon prayers, but because people have gone to take a nap or enjoy their hobby of chewing khat when the daily shipment arrives. Streets come to life again about 4.30 pm. Temperatures in the country at times hit 52 degree Celsius; so little can be done in such heat besides whiling the hours away in dreamland. People return back to work late in the afternoon when the weather is favourable. For a visitor, the temperatures here are punishing but the country boasts rich culture.
Every girl has a right to education
The article emphasizes the importance of education for girls, particularly those who become pregnant at a young age. It highlights the challenges faced by pregnant girls, including dropping out of school and falling into poverty. The author argues that education is a human right and essential for breaking the cycle of poverty. The article also references Unicef's stance on the benefits of educating girls and calls for societal support to ensure that all children, regardless of their circumstances, have access to education.
Humility lessons from US envoy
The article highlights the humility and leadership qualities of Virginia Blaser, the outgoing Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Tanzania and the East African Community. It emphasizes her ability to balance professional and personal roles, her inclusive approach to leadership, and her positive impact on women in Tanzania. The piece serves as a tribute to her character and contributions, encouraging other women in high positions to remain humble and supportive of their peers.
DEAR DIARY: Watch out for those male gold diggers
The article discusses the rise of male gold diggers, men who exploit women for financial gain. It highlights the story of a woman named Melby who encountered a man, Ted, who repeatedly failed to pay for their outings, revealing his opportunistic nature. The piece warns women to be cautious of such men who seek self-enrichment at the expense of women's emotions, emphasizing the need for vigilance in romantic relationships.
Don’t be ashamed of those curves
A curvy body, when dressed right, can attract significant attention and admiration. The article encourages women to embrace their curves and not be ashamed of their body shapes, despite societal pressures favoring leaner figures. It highlights the fashion industry's gradual acceptance of diverse body types and urges women to celebrate their unique shapes and feel confident and beautiful without hiding their bodies.
Why you need to go for that screening
The article emphasizes the importance of cancer screening, highlighting that 80% of cancers are not detected early due to lack of screening. It provides alarming statistics about cancer rates globally and in Tanzania, where 95% of cancer patients die at home. Cervical cancer is particularly prevalent among Tanzanian women, with lifestyle changes and diet being major risk factors. The article calls for better access to health facilities and diagnostic equipment to improve early detection and treatment.
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