President Samia Suluhu Hassan has honoured Prof. Joseph Ndunguru as an outstanding public servant, citing sweeping reforms that have transformed the Tanzania Plant Health and Pesticides Authority into one of Africa’s leading regulatory bodies.
The recognition, awarded during national International Workers' Day celebrations, comes as the authority reports a sharp rise in revenue and operational efficiency under Prof. Ndunguru’s leadership.
Data from the agency shows that annual collections rose from Sh14 billion in 2023 to Sh69 billion within just eight months between July 2025 and February this year, reflecting improved systems, expanded testing capacity and tighter border controls.
Since taking office in 2023, Prof. Ndunguru has overseen the modernisation of laboratories and the integration of 47 border inspection points into a single digital network, enabling faster and more transparent monitoring of pesticide imports.
Speaking at the event, President Samia said the recognition of exemplary workers reflects the government’s commitment to rewarding performance and strengthening productivity across sectors.
She noted that sustained economic growth will continue to guide improvements in workers’ welfare, including addressing outstanding claims and expanding access to decent jobs.
Prof. Ndunguru, speaking after receiving the award, attributed the achievement to institutional teamwork and policy support from the government, saying the authority’s progress is a result of collective implementation of national priorities.
He said TPHPA has reduced reliance on foreign laboratories by establishing internationally accredited testing facilities within Tanzania, allowing exporters to certify agricultural produce locally and at lower cost.
The development is expected to enhance competitiveness of Tanzanian crops in global markets, particularly for high-value produce.
The authority has also facilitated access to international markets, with at least 16 companies dealing in avocados and potatoes securing entry into China.
Smallholder farmers, he said, are now benefiting from improved post-harvest handling systems that allow produce to be cleaned and prepared locally before export.
Expansion plans are underway, including new laboratory facilities in Arusha and Makambako, aimed at further strengthening quality assurance systems and supporting export growth.
In a parallel initiative, the authority is planning to establish a national seed bank to preserve up to 10,000 indigenous seed varieties, supporting long-term agricultural sustainability and research.
TPHPA currently processes up to 2,000 samples per week, significantly reducing delays that previously affected certification timelines.
Prof. Ndunguru also signalled closer collaboration with the Journalists Organisation of Tanzania Workers to strengthen public awareness and expose the circulation of unregulated pesticides in the market.
JOWUTA chairperson Mussa Juma commended the authority for its performance and its support to the media sector, particularly in sponsoring the 2026 journalists’ awards.
