NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenyan journalist Larry Madowo, now a correspondent for CNN, has received an outpouring of support from Tanzanians following his investigative documentary into alleged security force violence after Tanzania’s October 2025 elections.
The CNN report, co-produced by Madowo, used geolocated video, satellite imagery, and witness testimonies to document a grim picture: security officers allegedly using lethal force, mass graves, and cover-ups.The exposé has reignited intense debate inside Tanzania — and significantly, many citizens are thanking Madowo for his boldness.
One of the most visible signs of support has come via social media, especially on X, where many Tanzanians changed their profile photos to images of Madowo.The campaign was prompted by a user known as @Sativa2555, who called for a week-long tribute, saying it was “the best way … to show him respect.”
One of the most prominent cheers came from activist Maria Sarungi Tsehai, a vocal critic of Tanzania’s current leadership. She praised Madowo’s work as “a great service for the nation” and called for him to be embraced and celebrated for telling difficult truths. In her message, Sarungi expressed both gratitude and solidarity: “Much love and power to you, Omera @LarryMadowo … Larry tunamtangaza wa kwetu kutoka Rorya.”
Not every reaction has been celebratory. The Tanzanian government issued a guarded response to the documentary, stating it is “reviewing and verifying” the contents. Madowo pushed back strongly, saying his team had asked detailed questions before publishing and that there were attempts to block the documentary’s release.
In interviews, Madowo has also articulated the broader challenge: Tanzania’s tight controls on foreign journalistic access. He previously noted that the accreditation process is restrictive for international reporters, calling it “a simple reason” why independent journalism faces serious barriers in the country. He added that even local journalists face harassment and intimidation when covering politically sensitive issues.
For many Tanzanians, Madowo’s documentary is more than just a news report — it’s validation of experiences that have long been denied or underreported. His willingness to spotlight alleged abuses, against the backdrop of internet blackouts and restricted media, is being seen as courageous and necessary.
Larry Madowo’s documentary has sparked a powerful wave of recognition and support from Tanzanians. While the government says it is ‘verifying’ the claims, many citizens have already changed their profiles to stand with the journalist — on social media, in their voices, and in their solidarity.
