By our Reporter, Dar es Salaam
The Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) has received advanced laboratory and screening equipment from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in recognition of Tanzania’s progress in combating illicit drugs and controlled substances.
The handover took place on April 22, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, where a UNODC delegation led by East Africa Regional Representative Ali El-Bereir praised the country’s efforts to curb drug trafficking, consumption, and the misuse of precursor chemicals.
The equipment was delivered under the Port Security and Safety of Navigation Programme (EU PSP), an international initiative aimed at strengthening port security and enhancing the capacity of national institutions to tackle trans-National organized crime, particularly drug trafficking.
According to officials, the newly supplied devices are capable of rapidly detecting a wide range of narcotics and controlled chemicals, even when concealed within sealed packaging.
The technology is expected to significantly improve investigative efficiency and operational effectiveness within the DCEA.
UNODC also pledged to continue supporting Tanzania through training programmes and capacity-building initiatives for DCEA officers, reinforcing ongoing efforts to counter drug-related crimes and safeguard public security.
