Finance Minister Dr. Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba has called on public servants under his ministry to uphold professionalism, unity, and accountability in safeguarding the national economy, describing the Ministry of Finance as the “heartbeat of government.”
Dr. Nchemba made the remarks during a staff engagement meeting held at the Government City in Mtumba, Dodoma, which brought together officials from across the Ministry to reflect on their performance, exchange ideas, and align their responsibilities with the broader national development agenda.
“The Ministry of Finance is central to government operations. If it falters, the whole country feels the impact. We must maintain discipline, integrity, and a strong sense of duty,” said Dr. Nchemba.
He urged employees to use the platform as an opportunity to address areas of weakness, encouraging open dialogue and continuous improvement.
“No human being is perfect. If you think you are, you are challenging God. Let’s accept that we can do better and take steps to improve,” he noted.
Dr. Nchemba commended the ministry’s workforce for enabling the country to continue implementing development projects despite ongoing global economic turbulence.
“Under the strong leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, you have played a pivotal role in ensuring Tanzania withstands global economic shocks while pushing forward critical national projects,” he added.
The Minister highlighted that the team’s performance has not only enhanced the ministry’s credibility but also strengthened the public confidence in the leadership of both himself and Deputy Minister Hamad Hassan Chande.
He assured staff of continued government investment in capacity building to ensure greater effectiveness in delivering national objectives.
Speaking at the same event, Permanent Secretary and Paymaster General, Dr. Natu El-maamry Mwamba, urged staff to improve efficiency in managing public revenues and expenditures, emphasizing the need to meet government goals for the 2025/26 fiscal year.
“We must apply our knowledge and experience to strengthen financial oversight, and ensure that the laws, regulations, and guidelines governing finance and budgeting are followed,” said Dr. Mwamba.
She further reminded the staff to adhere strictly to the approved plans and budget as endorsed by Parliament and to maintain confidentiality over government documents and sensitive information.
Deputy Permanent Secretary for Treasury Services, Ms. Jenifa Christian Omolo, emphasized teamwork and workplace harmony, encouraging staff to foster a culture of mutual respect and shared responsibility.
“No one knows everything. We all rely on each other to succeed. It is vital to support one another in achieving our goals,” said Ms. Omolo.
Elijah Mwandumbya, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Economic Management, praised staff for their dedication and tireless work in delivering key government services.
“You have shown commitment and sacrifice, often working late to ensure our responsibilities are fulfilled on time,” he said.
Ms. Amina Khamis Shaaban, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Public Finance, stressed the importance of enhancing domestic resource mobilization to support national development.
She also called for increased efforts to secure concessional financing to reduce long-term dependency on external aid.
“To reduce reliance on donors, the Ministry must strengthen the use of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). Staff involved in PPPs must be proactive in identifying and overseeing impactful joint ventures,” she stated.
Government Chief Accountant, CPA (T) Leonard Mkude, and Internal Auditor General, Mr. Benjamin Magai, acknowledged the dedication of staff in ensuring timely execution of financial obligations and oversight of development projects in the 2024/25 fiscal year.
The meeting concluded with a collective call for integrity, accountability, confidentiality, and focus—particularly in the lead-up to the 2025 General Election.
Staff were reminded to remain vigilant and to participate fully in the democratic process, putting the national interest first.