Arusha, Tanzania – The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has assured members of the Tanzania Association of Personal Secretaries (TAPSEA) that the Government will address the challenges they raised during their 12th Professional Conference, taking place at the Ngurdoto Conference Centre in Arusha.
Speaking to participants via phone, President Samia emphasized the Government's commitment to improving the welfare of office administrators.
“The Government has heard your concerns, and we are committed to working on them. Your role is vital in national development,” she stated.
She also encouraged members to uphold diligence and professionalism, noting that improved performance directly contributes to national economic growth.
“When you work hard, you uplift not only your own livelihoods but also the nation’s economy,” said the President.
In light of the upcoming 2025 General Elections, President Samia urged TAPSEA members to ensure they are fully registered and informed: “I call upon you all to participate actively in the electoral process. Register, verify your information, and encourage others to do the same.”he added
Representing the President at the opening of the conference, Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango underscored the importance of technological adaptability for secretaries and office administrators in a fast-evolving workplace.
“We are living in a digital era. You must continually update your skills and embrace innovation. Proficiency in ICT is no longer optional—it’s essential,” said Dr. Mpango.
He urged employers to invest in continuous learning opportunities:
“I challenge all employers to organize regular in-service and short-term training. Equip your staff with the skills needed for today’s and tomorrow’s office environments.”
Dr. Mpango also reminded office administrators of their ethical responsibilities:“You are the custodians of sensitive information. Uphold confidentiality, integrity, and the reputation of the institutions you serve. A single leak can compromise national security or institutional trust.”he added
He called on employers to provide logistical and budgetary support to enable staff participation in professional events: “Support from employers in these professional gatherings is not a luxury it’s a necessity.”
Zanzibar’s Minister of State, Dr. Haroun Ali Suleiman, praised TAPSEA as a model for national integration:“TAPSEA is a shining example of a professional body that strengthens the Union by including voices from both the Mainland and Zanzibar.”
He commended members for “continuing to protect government secrets and maintain professionalism across offices.”he added
Minister of State for Public Service and Good Governance, Hon. George Simbachawene, reaffirmed the Government’s support:
“We are ready to collaborate with TAPSEA to resolve policy and operational challenges. You have our full support in improving service delivery across the nation.”
On behalf of TAPSEA, Chairperson Ms. Zuhura Songambele thanked the Government for improvements made at the Public Service College in Tabora.
“We appreciate the Government’s efforts to improve our training facilities. However, we still need more teaching tools to ensure we produce highly competent public servants,” she said.
She appealed to the Government to ensure compliance with professional development directives:“Some employers still prevent staff from attending professional meetings. We urge action to enforce participation and support implementation of the Office Administrator Career Development Structure.”
This year’s TAPSEA Conference, held from May 12–17, 2025, has brought together nearly 5,000 participants from various government ministries, private institutions, public organizations, civil society, and companies across Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.
The annual gathering serves as a platform for learning, networking, and sharing experiences, especially in adapting to new technologies and digital systems.
“Each year, we meet to refine our skills, share knowledge, and grow as a profession,” said one participant. “The speed of change in ICT means we must always be ahead of the curve.”he added