By The Respondents Reporter
The Government has officially launched the Emergency Operations and Communications Centre in Mwanza Region, a key facility designed to strengthen disaster preparedness, coordination, and emergency response across the region and the country.
The launch, held on June 5, 2026, marks a major step in improving how emergency information is collected, shared, and acted upon, with the aim of saving lives and protecting property during disasters.
Speaking during the inauguration, Mwanza Regional Commissioner Said Mtanda said the new centre will significantly improve how the region responds to emergencies by ensuring faster communication and better coordination among key stakeholders.
He said the facility will enable authorities to monitor emergency situations in real time, analyze information quickly, and ensure timely response when disasters occur.
“The centre will ensure that important information reaches the responsible authorities quickly so that the right decisions are made at the right time,” said Mr. Mtanda.
He added that the centre is directly connected to the National Emergency Operations and Communications Centre, making it easier for regional and national authorities to work together in responding to disasters.
This connection is expected to improve efficiency and reduce delays in emergency response operations.
Mr. Mtanda further said the initiative is part of the Government’s broader efforts to build a strong and coordinated national disaster management system capable of responding effectively to different types of emergencies, including floods, accidents, and other hazards.
He called on emergency response teams and government officials to fully utilize the system, strengthen teamwork, and apply the training provided to improve service delivery in disaster management.
On his part, the Director of Disaster Management at the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities, Brigadier General Hosea Ndagala, said the centre will serve as a vital hub for collecting and sharing information on emergencies and disasters.
He said its direct link to the national system will allow the Government to access timely and accurate information, monitor risks, and coordinate response resources more effectively.
“Through this centre, the Government will be able to detect risks early, issue warnings in time, coordinate resources, and improve communication among all stakeholders involved in disaster management,” he said.
He added that the investment is an important step in strengthening the country’s preparedness and ensuring faster and more organized responses to emergencies.
He also noted that the newly established regional emergency response team will play a key role in responding to incidents quickly and effectively.
The Government also said the launch comes at a critical time as the Tanzania Meteorological Authority continues to issue weather forecasts warning of possible heavy rains and related impacts linked to El Niño conditions.
The Mwanza Emergency Operations and Communications Centre is expected to improve coordination, strengthen early warning systems, and enhance the country’s ability to respond to disasters in a timely and effective manner, ultimately helping to protect lives, property, and infrastructure.
