Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Prof. Palamagamba Kabudi, has commended the Weights and Measures Agency (WMA) for its critical role in protecting consumers and ensuring fairness in trade, particularly within Tanzania’s agricultural sector.
Prof. Kabudi made the remarks on Wednesday after visiting the WMA pavilion at the ongoing NaneNane Agricultural Exhibition at Nzuguni Grounds in Dodoma.
The annual fair, which showcases innovations and services that support agricultural and rural development, has drawn thousands of stakeholders from across the country.
He described WMA as a vital institution whose work directly touches the lives of ordinary Tanzanians, including farmers, traders, and consumers.
“WMA plays a frontline role in ensuring that Tanzanians, especially small-scale farmers and consumers, are not exploited through faulty or unfair measurement systems,” said Prof. Kabudi.
“You are protecting the value of people’s sweat and livelihoods, and that is commendable.”
The minister urged WMA to continue delivering its mandate with dedication and professionalism, noting that accurate and reliable measurements are essential for building trust in markets and driving economic growth.
“Let this not be a one-off show at NaneNane. Tanzanians across all sectors deserve the same level of service and protection every day. Keep working hard, and stay committed to your responsibility,” he added.
At the pavilion, WMA officers demonstrated how the agency verifies weighing scales and other measuring equipment used in the marketplace.
They also offered free public education on the importance of legal metrology in promoting consumer safety and confidence.
WMA Director General, Ms. Cecilia Haule, said the agency is stepping up its outreach efforts to ensure that citizens across the country understand their rights regarding accurate measurement — whether in buying farm produce, fuel, or household goods.
“We are here to show that WMA is not just a regulator we are a protector of fairness in trade. This year, we’ve intensified our inspections, and we’re working more closely with regional and district authorities to ensure compliance,” she said.
In line with the government’s industrialisation and inclusive economic growth agenda, WMA is also working to support farmers and small-scale processors to access certified measuring equipment and services.
The agency is mandated under the Weights and Measures Act to regulate and supervise trade measurement systems, ensuring that every transaction from farm to market is done with integrity and transparency.
This year’s NaneNane theme focuses on the importance of science, technology, and innovation in advancing the agricultural sector and improving rural livelihoods.
The exhibition runs through August 8 and brings together government institutions, private sector players, innovators, and development partners.