Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has ordered a thorough investigation into the purchase of nearly 4,000 substandard roof sheets for the construction of Katavi Boys Secondary School, a misstep that forced the government to pay double the intended amount.
The Prime Minister issued the directive on March 16, 2026, during a public meeting at Maridadi Grounds in Mpanda Town, as part of his official visit to Katavi Region.
Addressing the public, Dkt. Nchemba questioned how roof sheets worth about TZS 198 million were procured despite failing to meet required standards.
“Almost TZS 200 million was spent on roof sheets that are unsuitable. Who approved this purchase? Why did the government pay twice for this?” he asked.
After receiving explanations from Sophia Kumburi, the Chief Executive Officer of Mpanda Municipal Council, the Prime Minister expressed dissatisfaction with how the issue was handled and ordered all responsible parties to be held accountable.
“The contractor who supplied the substandard sheets and all officials involved must be arrested until government funds are recovered, and they must face legal action,” he said.
Dkt. Nchemba also directed Sipha Nkusi Mwanjala, the Regional Director of the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) in Katavi, to investigate the involvement of everyone connected to the procurement.
“The TAKUKURU Regional Commander must examine all individuals and determine their roles. We cannot protect people at the expense of public funds,” he said.
He further instructed Katavi Regional Police Commander (RPC), Kaster Ngonyani, to ensure that the contractor, Resa Roofers Limited of Mwanza, owned by Mr. Samwel Richard, and all officials involved face legal consequences.
In a related matter, the Prime Minister called for strong action against leaders involved in fertilizer fraud at the Ilangu Agricultural Cooperative Society (AMCOS) in Tanganyika District.
Reports show that NPK 10:18:24 fertilizer worth USD 33,000 (about TZS 91 million) was involved. Some accused officials allegedly reimbursed the funds but continue to hold leadership positions while court cases proceed.
“I am told these individuals have returned the money and the case is in court, but they remain in office. How can people who stole be allowed to continue as leaders?” he questioned.
Dkt. Nchemba instructed the responsible minister to ensure that all accused are immediately removed from office while their cases are ongoing.
He emphasized that returning the money alone does not absolve wrongdoing. All involved must be held accountable under the law and public service regulations.
“Tanzanians pay taxes not because they are wealthy, but to ensure development. We cannot allow public funds to be lost through negligence or deliberate misconduct,” he said.
