The government has stepped up efforts to tighten oversight of development projects nationwide, warning that weak supervision and poor professionalism undermine value for money and delay services meant for citizens.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Mr Sospeter Mtwale, said stronger accountability mechanisms are now a priority as the state continues to channel billions of shillings into development initiatives across the country.
Speaking in Dodoma on Monday while opening a leadership training programme for Heads of Units in Regional Commissioners’ Offices, Mr Mtwale said effective supervision is no longer optional, given the scale of public investment in infrastructure and social services.
He cited projects including administrative buildings, staff houses, health facilities, classrooms, dormitories and laboratories, noting that their impact depends largely on the quality of management and adherence to contractual obligations.
“When supervision is weak, the public loses twice through delayed services and wasted resources. Heads of Units must take ownership and ensure projects meet approved standards,” Mr Mtwale said.
He explained that the government has strengthened its oversight framework by introducing Monitoring and Evaluation Units within the regional administrative structure, a move aimed at improving transparency, tracking progress and enforcing accountability in the use of public funds.
Mr Mtwale also emphasised the importance of regular site inspections, timely reporting and coordination among technical teams to address implementation challenges before they escalate.
In addition, he urged closer collaboration between technical departments and Government Communication Units to ensure citizens receive timely updates on project progress and the handling of their concerns.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary concluded by calling on regional officials to uphold professionalism, integrity and patriotism, stressing that effective project management is critical to improving public service delivery and advancing sustainable national development.
Meanwhile, Assistant Director of Regional Administration Mr Ibrahim Minja said the leadership training is part of broader government efforts to equip Heads of Units with the skills required to manage public projects responsibly and efficiently.