Pioneering Partnership: Tanzanian Firms Unite to Transform Research Communication
On December 6, 2024, a groundbreaking partnership was unveiled in Dar es Salaam, marking the beginning of a bold initiative to bridge the gap between researchers and the public in Tanzania and beyond. Two innovative Tanzanian companies ResearchCOM, a research communication company, and BSM Washauri, a knowledge-based business consultancy—have joined forces to launch the UTAFITI FORUM, a platform licensed by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA).
Set to officially kick off in January 2025, UTAFITI FORUM is designed to transform how research findings are communicated, fostering collaboration between researchers and journalists to ignite informed public discourse across Tanzania and East Africa.
The Vision Behind the Partnership
Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during the ceremony, the two firms pledged to leverage their expertise to tackle one of the region’s critical challenges: the disconnect between groundbreaking research and its real-world impact. Their shared goal is to bring research out of the confines of academic journals and into the hands of communities, policymakers, and global audiences.
This collaboration will focus on:
1. Media training for researchers
2. Writing for global and policy impact
3. Data communication strategies
4. Disseminating research findings beyond academic circles
The Need for UTAFITI FORUM
“Many researchers focus solely on publishing in academic journals, which limits the reach and impact of their work,” said Dr. Syriacus Buguzi, CEO of ResearchCOM and a renowned science communication specialist. “Through UTAFITI FORUM, we aim to inspire a mindset shift among researchers, equipping them with the skills to engage with the public and create meaningful change. This structured, three-stage process will empower them to communicate effectively, ensuring their research benefits society at large.”
Mr. Bakari S. Machumu, CEO of BSM Washauri and a veteran media leader with nearly 30 years of experience, echoed this sentiment:
“Experts say that for any business to succeed, it must solve a significant problem. The challenge here is clear: while Tanzania is home to incredible research, much of it remains inaccessible to the public due to ineffective communication. This partnership is our solution—to help researchers unlock the full potential of their work.”
Innovating for Impact
UTAFITI FORUM will serve as a hub for creativity, training, and collaboration, combining innovative approaches to research communication with practical solutions tailored to the needs of researchers and journalists. Early interest in the platform has been overwhelming, with researchers and journalists alike eager to enroll in its training programs.
Dr. Buguzi emphasized the platform’s potential:
“We are introducing novel ideas that can help researchers reach beyond the academic sphere and make a tangible impact on communities and policies. The enthusiasm we’ve seen so far is proof that the time is right for this initiative.”
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Society
As Tanzania and East Africa face complex challenges requiring evidence-based solutions, UTAFITI FORUM promises to be a catalyst for change. By equipping researchers with communication skills and fostering collaboration with the media, the platform will play a vital role in ensuring research informs public policy and addresses societal needs.
“This partnership isn’t just about training,” said Mr. Machumu. “It’s about empowering a new wave of researchers to think beyond their papers and create real-world impact. Together, we’re reimagining the role of research in society.”
Looking Ahead
As UTAFITI FORUM prepares for its January launch, the partnership between ResearchCOM and BSM Washauri represents a beacon of innovation and collaboration in Tanzania’s knowledge industry. With the right tools, support, and vision, researchers will finally have the platform they need to make their work resonate far beyond the academic world.
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