By Alfred Zacharia
Head of Government Communication and Spokesperson for the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), John Mapepele, has called on Regional and Council Information Officers across the country to embrace patriotism and professionalism when disseminating government information to ensure it has a meaningful impact on the nation.
Addressing over 200 Regional and Council Information Officers during a two-day working session in Dodoma, Mapepele emphasized the importance of strategic communication in showcasing government achievements—particularly in the key sectors of health, education, and infrastructure under PO-RALG.
The session, organized by PO-RALG, was officially opened by the Minister of State in the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government, Mr. Mohamed Omary Mchengerwa, and closed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Sports, who is also the Government Chief Spokesperson, Mr. Gerson Msigwa.
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in discussions on best practices for communicating development progress.
The event also served as a platform to enhance professional skills in areas such as digital systems usage in public communication.
It concluded with key resolutions aimed at improving efficiency and accountability in information sharing.
Mapepele expressed concern over the lack of sufficient media coverage on major development projects already implemented in various councils and regions, urging officers to become more innovative and proactive.
“We have witnessed massive transformations under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership—roads, bridges, bus terminals, markets, classrooms, health centers, and medical equipment have been constructed across the country,” Mapepele noted, adding that “It is our patriotic duty as public information officers to ensure these efforts are visible and well communicated to citizens so they can benefit fully from these services.”
In his opening remarks, Minister Mchengerwa reminded the officers of their critical role in ensuring that citizens access accurate and timely information about government initiatives in their respective areas.
“You carry a heavy responsibility,” he said.
“Do not allow misinformation to mislead the people—ensure they are fed with verified facts about the progress being made,” he stressed.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Permanent Secretary Msigwa applauded PO-RALG for hosting the working session and proposed that such forums be held annually.
He emphasized that regular engagements will allow officers to assess their performance, exchange ideas, and refine their approaches to public communication, especially in relaying updates on development projects.
To conclude the program, participants had the opportunity to tour the new Government City at Mtumba in Dodoma, witnessing firsthand the progress of the landmark administrative hub, a symbol of ongoing public sector transformation.
