Government auditors have been trained to ensure that development projects genuinely improve the lives of Tanzanian citizens while protecting the environment and ensuring public money is used wisely.
The program focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) audits alongside Value for Money (VFM) assessments, preparing auditors to make development projects more accountable, efficient, and people-centered.
Chief Internal Auditor of the Government, Mr. Benjamin Magai, said the training emphasizes the direct impact projects have on communities.
“Development projects should not just exist on paper. They must benefit citizens, protect the environment, and make sure public funds are spent effectively,” he said.
Mr. Magai noted that auditors now play a key role in ensuring that projects funded by both the government and development partners meet high standards.
This includes preventing environmental damage, reducing social risks, and guaranteeing that resources reach the intended communities.
“Through this training, auditors gain practical skills to identify risks that could harm people or the environment and to recommend corrective measures. Ultimately, this ensures development projects truly serve citizens and their communities,” he added.
The program covered environmental and social impact assessments, strategic planning for sustainability, and ways to integrate climate change considerations into project audits.
Auditors also explored opportunities such as carbon trading, which can provide social, economic, and environmental benefits to local communities.
Chair of the training, Mr. Jackson Kingumwile, said the program strengthens the government’s commitment to sustainable development.
“Auditors are now better equipped to ensure that projects improve livelihoods, protect natural resources, and contribute to the well-being of communities,” he said.
The initiative aims to transform internal auditing by making it more citizen-focused. With auditors able to examine ESG and VFM in development projects, citizens can expect better accountability, more efficient use of public funds, and projects that deliver real social, economic, and environmental benefits.
“Every project must safeguard the environment and improve people’s lives. This training ensures that auditors are capable of making that happen,” Mr. Kingumwile added.
By linking financial oversight with social and environmental responsibility, the government expects a new era of development projects where communities see tangible benefits, public resources are well managed, and Tanzania moves closer to achieving sustainable development goals.