Tanzanian independent media editor and human rights advocate Maria Sarungi Tsehai recently drew attention after being abducted by Kenyan assailants on Sunday, January 12. The outspoken activist was kidnapped around 3:15 PM near Chaka Place in Kilimani but was later released the same day, as she revealed on her X platform.
Photo: X/ Faith Odhiambo
Tsehai is renowned for championing positive change in Tanzania, earning a reputation for her strong advocacy on social, political, and gender issues. Through her impactful work in media, activism, and mentorship, she has become a powerful force for societal progress. Her unwavering commitment to justice and equality has made her a key figure in shaping Tanzania’s future. Here is her story as told by WoK.
Early Life
Tsehai was born in Tanzania, but her childhood took a turning point when her father, who had been studying at Bugema Missionary College in Uganda, moved to Hungary for further university studies. It was in Hungary that her passion for journalism began to take root, setting the stage for her future career.
Education
Her relocation to Hungary marked the beginning of her journey into media and communications. She not only transitioned from foundational learning but also mastered English and Hungarian.
Enrolling at Eötvös Loránd University, she balanced her studies with hands-on experience, working in various media outlets to refine her journalistic skills. In 1999, she graduated with a degree in Humanities, laying the foundation for her impactful career.
Career
She has cultivated a multifaceted career spanning communication, journalism, and the fashion industry. As the founder and director of Compass Communications, an independent production company based in Tanzania, she has played a pivotal role in producing impactful films like “Am Tired” (2005) and “Born on Fire” (2008).
Furthermore, she is the owner and operator of Kwanza TV, a groundbreaking online television channel celebrated for its bold and balanced coverage of Tanzanian events.
Activism
Tsehai is widely recognized as the founder of the “Change Tanzania” campaign, which started as the hashtag #ChangeTanzania on X (formerly Twitter). The movement empowers Tanzanians to actively engage in driving positive change, particularly in the political arena.
Through her media platforms, she champions education for young women, fights against gender discrimination, and mentors the youth. Her activism also focuses on advocating for human rights, media freedom, and freedom of expression, cementing her role as a transformative voice in Tanzanian society.
Beyond her activism, Tsehai has made a significant impact on the fashion industry by empowering young women to achieve their dreams. As director of Miss Universe Tanzania from its inception in 2007 until 2019, she played a key role in establishing and managing the pageant, which selects Tanzania’s representative for the global competition.
Her leadership created a platform for participants to showcase their talents and launch careers in fashion and entertainment. Through her mentorship, many have achieved personal and professional success, earning her recognition both within Tanzania and internationally.
Online Presence
Tsehai stays actively engaged online, sharing her advocacy and insights through platforms like her Medium blog and Instagram. With her diverse career and dedication to social change, Maria Sarungi Tsehai remains a prominent figure in Tanzania’s media landscape and a tireless advocate for human rights and societal progress.
Abduction
On January 12, 2025, Maria Sarungi Tsehai was abducted by three armed men near Chaka Place in Nairobi’s Kilimani area at around 3:15 PM. Reports from Amnesty Kenya revealed that she was forcibly taken by the assailants who arrived in a black Toyota Noah vehicle. She was released a few hours later and confirmed her safety on social media, vowing to disclose more details about the traumatic ordeal she experienced at the hands of her captors.
