The Urban Journalism Academy brought together journalists, editors, government officials and urban development experts in Dodoma to strengthen media engagement on housing, sustainable urban development and Tanzania Development Vision 2050. The Academy provided a platform to discuss Tanzania’s rapid urbanization, housing development, land-use planning and the role of the media in communicating urban development issues to citizens. Particular emphasis was placed on moving from event-based reporting towards development journalism that follows implementation, results and impacts on people’s lives. Discussions highlighted the importance of evidence-based and people-centred reporting, including greater use of urban data, GIS and other information sources. Participants also explored how journalists can report more effectively on affordable housing, infrastructure, land, climate resilience, informal settlements and inclusive urban development. The Academy strengthened collaboration between government institutions, UN-Habitat and the media and encouraged continued capacity-building for journalists to support informed public dialogue and accountability on Tanzania’s urban development priorities.