The Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) has launched a focused strategy to address staff shortages that have hindered forest conservation efforts nationwide.
Deputy Commissioner for Conservation in charge of Auxiliary Services, DCC Emmanuel Wilfred Kiboko, revealed that the agency currently has just 48 percent of the workforce it needs, according to a recent assessment under the HR-Assessment system of the President’s Office – Public Service Management and Good Governance.
Speaking on the third day of the Fourth Meeting of TFS Leaders and Station Commanders at Cate Hotel in Morogoro, Kiboko said the government has issued 862 recruitment permits over the past two years to close the gap.
“So far, 369 staff members have been recruited, completed military training, and been assigned to duty stations. About 300 more are expected to start ranger training on March 1, 2026, at Mlele Camp, while recruitment for other positions is ongoing through the Public Service Recruitment Secretariat,” he said.
“These steps will help reduce the staffing gap and boost efficiency in managing Tanzania’s forests,” Kiboko added.
Kiboko stressed that all staff must adhere to the Performance Evaluation and Performance Management System (PEPMS), noting that annual salary increments are now tied directly to individual performance. He urged commanders to ensure the full implementation of the e-Performance system to strengthen accountability and productivity.
He also reminded staff that alongside government efforts to improve working conditions, employees are expected to maintain discipline, integrity, and professionalism.
“The government has fulfilled its duty. It is now our responsibility to carry out our work according to laws, regulations, and public service ethics,” he warned, adding that violators will face appropriate action.
Kiboko confirmed that preparations for the 2026/27 staff establishment and budget have been completed to align workforce needs with TFS’s mandate to manage mainland Tanzania’s forests.
The meeting continues to explore strategies to enhance staff performance, improve the efficiency of rangers and conservation officers, and reinforce the principles of “Work and Humanity” in public service delivery.
