By The Respondent Reporter, Mbeya
The recent promotion of 208 police officers in Mbeya has once again highlighted the importance of discipline in building a strong and trusted police force in Tanzania.
The officers, who were promoted to the ranks of Corporal, Sergeant, and Senior Sergeant Major, were urged to lead by example and bring positive change to the force.
Speaking during the promotion ceremony on May 23, 2025, Mbeya Regional Police Commander, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SACP) Benjamin Kuzaga, reminded the officers of the values they must uphold. He was representing the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Camillus Wambura.
“These promotions come with responsibility,” said Commander Kuzaga.
He said the Police Force acknowledges the valuable contributions of every officer.
"We will continue to promote and reward officers based on performance rooted in discipline, justice, professionalism, and integrity,” he added.
His message comes at a time when public confidence in law enforcement continues to depend on how officers conduct themselves in the line of duty.
Promotions, while seen as recognition, are also seen as a test of leadership, especially for those moving into supervisory roles.
The 208 officers earned their new ranks after being recommended and successfully completing junior leadership training at police institutions across the country.
One of the key training centers involved was the Tanzania Police School (TPS) in Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, formerly known as the Central Police College (CCP).
Police Senior Sergeant Major Benson Lucka from Mbeya District Police is one of the officers who was promoted. He thanked the leadership of the Police Force for recognizing their efforts.
“These promotions are a reflection of our commitment to duty, and we are encouraged to continue serving our nation diligently,” said Sergeant Major Lucka.
His comments reflect the pride and motivation that come with formal recognition of service. However, analysts say the real test will be how these officers translate their new roles into better service delivery, especially at the community level.
The Police Force has been under pressure in recent years to improve discipline, reduce misconduct, and work more closely with the public. Promotions based on performance and ethical conduct are seen as one of the strategies to drive reform from within.
As Commander Kuzaga pointed out, the expectation now is for the promoted officers to set a good example.
“They must show the way in discipline and integrity,” he said. “Only then can we build a police force that the people of Tanzania can fully trust.”
The ceremony in Mbeya may have been about celebrating success, but it also served as a reminder: in policing, every promotion is a call to higher standards.