The Government of Tanzania, through the Ministry of Finance, has held a sector-level Public Expenditure Review (PER) workshop, part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen budget execution, transparency, and accountability in the use of public funds.
Opening the workshop, Arusha Assistant Regional Administrative Secretary, Mr. Moses Tesha, said the review is a legal requirement under the Budget Act, Chapter 439, and its regulations, and is conducted annually.
He explained that the 2024/25 review focuses on spending trends in key sectors, including Health, Education, Water, and Agriculture, with a view to improving the preparation of the 2026/27 national budget.
“The Government is committed to ensuring that public funds are spent according to national priorities, supporting economic growth, and providing quality services to citizens,” Mr. Tesha said.
He added that PER is not new, noting that it has been conducted for many years with development partners.
“Since 2023/24, the Government has strengthened the process by involving more local institutions and stakeholders, increasing ownership and better management of public funds,” he said.
Commissioner for Budget Management at the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Meshack Anyingisye, said the workshop provides a platform for the Government to reflect on past performance, assess current spending, and identify areas for improvement.
“It is a unique opportunity to plan collaboratively, ensuring public funds deliver maximum benefit to citizens,” he said.
The workshop also involved experts from universities, non-governmental organizations, and research institutions to provide independent insights into spending efficiency and sector performance.
Director of Planning and Investment at the University of Dodoma, Dr. Evodius Kanyamyoga, described the event as a continuation of last year’s forum, which significantly supported both public and private development initiatives.
“Stakeholders from national to local levels have identified areas that need improvement, which will guide the 2026/27 budget to enhance service delivery and national productivity,” he said.
The workshop brought together directors of policy and planning from all sector ministries, regional and council secretariats, city and municipal councils, as well as representatives from non-governmental organizations and the Ministry of Finance.