The Government has reaffirmed the critical role of office administrators and executive secretaries in strengthening efficiency, coordination, and service delivery across public and private institutions, saying they remain a key link between leaders, staff, and citizens seeking services.
The statement was made by the Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Ambassador Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi, during the opening of the 13th Annual General and Professional Conference of the Tanzania Professional Secretaries Association (TAPSEA), held at Ngurdoto Hall in Arusha Region.
Dr. Nchimbi said office administrators and executive secretaries play a central role in ensuring that government and institutional operations run smoothly, noting that their efficiency directly supports leaders and technical officers to focus on planning and delivering public services.
He said the Government values their contribution and continues to recognize professional associations as important partners in building discipline, unity, and ethical standards in the public service.
He added that stability in workplaces depends largely on professionalism and commitment among administrative staff.
The Vice President praised office administrators for being the first point of contact in many institutions, saying their attitude and professionalism shape how citizens perceive public services.
He urged them to continue serving the public with respect, patience, and dedication, especially when dealing with people seeking assistance.
He also emphasized the importance of confidentiality, discipline, and ethical behavior, reminding them that trust in public institutions depends on how well they safeguard sensitive information and manage official responsibilities.
Dr. Nchimbi commended the Chuo cha Utumishi wa Umma Tanzania for expanding training opportunities for office administrators and executive secretaries, including diploma and postgraduate programmes.
He said this progress has elevated the profession from routine administrative work to more strategic roles in planning, coordination, and decision-making.
He encouraged training institutions to continue strengthening their programmes to produce skilled professionals who can meet the evolving needs of the public service.
He also called on all institutions to ensure office administrators are given opportunities to participate in professional development forums, workshops, and conferences.
On leadership within TAPSEA, Dr. Nchimbi congratulated outgoing leaders for their contribution in strengthening unity and professionalism within the association.
He urged members to ensure transparent, fair, and democratic elections that will bring competent leaders capable of advancing members’ interests.
He also called on members to avoid division and instead focus on electing leaders based on integrity, experience, and commitment to improving the profession.
On Government support, the Minister of State in the President’s Office for Public Service Management and Good Governance, Ridhiwani Kikwete, said the Government will continue working closely with public servants, including TAPSEA members, to improve working conditions and professional growth.
He said the Government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan remains committed to strengthening public service systems through training, welfare improvement, and job security.
He encouraged public servants to maintain trust in Government efforts to support their professional development.
Speaking on behalf of TAPSEA, Chairperson Zuhura Maganga said the association has recorded major progress in strengthening the profession, including the development of structured academic programmes such as diplomas and degrees in office administration, as well as master’s level studies in communication and office management.
She said these achievements have improved professionalism and career growth among members, enabling them to adapt to modern office systems and technological changes while improving service delivery.
The conference brought together office administrators, executive secretaries, government officials, and stakeholders from across the country to discuss ways of improving professionalism and strengthening service delivery in both public and private sectors.
Overall, the Government reiterated its commitment to continue recognizing and empowering office administrators and executive secretaries as an essential part of the public service system, stressing that their role is vital in ensuring efficient, respectful, and citizen-centered service delivery.
