By Alfred Zacharia
The government has called on leaders of public institutions to cultivate supportive and inclusive work environments that promote productivity, innovation, and accountability among employees.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of a four-day induction training for Chief Executives of Public Institutions, Government Agencies, and State-Owned Enterprises (Group Two), Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disabilities), Mr. Ridhiwani Kikwete, underscored the importance of shifting from authoritarian leadership to people-centred management approaches.
“If we want better results, we must move away from outdated, rigid leadership styles,” said Mr. Kikwete, adding that “We need to create environments that inspire dedication, creativity, and efficiency across all levels.”
He clarified that promoting a supportive workplace does not mean tolerating poor performance.
“Leadership must be anchored in professionalism and purpose, with a strong commitment to good governance,” he added.
The minister urged institutional leaders to uphold public service ethics, empower staff to contribute ideas, and adapt to evolving technological and operational needs to enhance service delivery and institutional relevance.
He noted that such reforms have already borne fruit, citing increased government returns from public entities. In the 2024/25 financial year, President Samia Suluhu Hassan received a record Sh1.028 trillion in non-tax revenue from state institutions, an outcome he attributed to ongoing reforms and improved performance.
“The government’s investment in public institutions now stands at Sh86.29 trillion, and our goal is to ensure this investment continues to yield sustainable value for the country,” Mr. Kikwete said.
Supporting the minister’s remarks, Minister of State in the President’s Office (Planning and Investment), Prof. Kitila Mkumbo, reiterated the government’s commitment, through the Treasury Registrar’s Office, to establishing a governance ecosystem that accelerates national development.
Prof. Mkumbo urged leaders to comply with government guidelines and laws to curb wasteful spending and enhance transparency in public finance management.
Also speaking during the event, Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office (Public Service Management), Mr. Juma Mkomi, said the training—organised by the Treasury Registrar’s Office in collaboration with the UONGOZI Institute, focused on modern leadership, accountability, and service excellence.
He said the sessions, which brought together 114 institutional heads, were expected to improve human resource management and promote continuous learning among executives.
“Don’t shy away from learning from your team,” Mr. Mkomi advised.
Doing so,according to him, helps build trust, inclusivity, and greater efficiency.
Treasury Registrar Nehemiah Mchechu emphasised that reforms in the public sector require strong, innovative leadership and collaboration across government institutions and their parent ministries.
“We need leaders who can adapt and champion governance reforms,” he said.
He pointed it as the only way to drive performance and deliver meaningful results for national development.