The President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG) has embarked on strengthening the capacity of budget officers across the country as part of efforts to improve fiscal accountability and ensure that public resources translate into better services for citizens.
Opening a training programme in Dodoma on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, the Deputy Permanent Secretary at PO-RALG, Mr. Sospeter Mtwale, said the government was determined to enhance efficiency in the preparation and execution of local government budgets.
He noted that budget officers have a critical role in ensuring that funds allocated to Local Government Authorities (LGAs) are managed transparently and directed towards priority areas that directly impact communities.
“Every shilling must be accounted for. Budget officers should monitor implementation reports every quarter and make sure they are submitted on time. This accountability ensures resources are used effectively to meet the needs of our people,” he said.
Mr. Mtwale stressed that requests for supplementary budgets will only be considered once they have been thoroughly verified in line with the Budget Act, Chapter 436.
He said the verification process was designed to minimize errors and strengthen financial discipline across LGAs.
The training, which brings together economists, planners, and statisticians, is expected to equip participants with advanced skills in budget preparation, the use of digital tools such as PlanRep, and collaborative planning that aligns with both government priorities and local needs.
Representing the Director of Local Government Authorities at PO-RALG, Mr. Kassim Mudrika Kassim Mjungu, said the programme is also designed to close skills gaps that have previously hindered effective financial planning at the local government level.
“By building the competence of budget officers, we are not only ensuring compliance with regulations but also laying the groundwork for budgets that are realistic, responsive, and impactful,” he said.
The move comes at a time when Tanzania is reinforcing fiscal decentralization to strengthen service delivery at the grassroots, with PO-RALG playing a central role in guiding councils and regions on how to manage resources efficiently.
