Deputy Minister for Works Godfrey Kasekenya has directed the Engineers Registration Board (ERB) to take firm disciplinary action against engineers who breach professional ethics, saying stronger regulation is critical to safeguarding public resources and ensuring the safety of infrastructure projects.
Speaking during a working visit to the ERB headquarters in Dodoma, Mr Kasekenya said the engineering profession underpins national development and requires strict adherence to professional standards, particularly as the country continues to invest heavily in infrastructure.
He noted that engineering projects consume significant public funds, making accountability and compliance with technical standards essential throughout project planning, design and implementation.
"Engineering projects involve substantial public investment. Every stage of implementation must follow professional standards and established procedures to prevent financial losses and protect the public. Projects that fail to meet engineering standards can result in serious economic costs and pose risks to people's lives," he said.
The deputy minister also called on the board to strengthen oversight of engineering consultancy firms to ensure they deliver designs and technical services that meet the required standards.
He warned that weak project designs and inadequate supervision could undermine the quality and durability of public infrastructure, ultimately increasing maintenance costs and exposing the government to avoidable losses.
Mr Kasekenya further urged the ERB to enhance scrutiny of foreign engineers engaged in projects in Tanzania to ensure they possess the qualifications and competencies required under the country's regulatory framework.
He also emphasised the need for closer supervision and mentorship of young engineers to promote professional integrity and adherence to ethical standards from the beginning of their careers.
Presenting the board's performance report on behalf of the ERB Registrar, Assistant Registrar for Professional Development, Engineer Veronica Ninalwo, said the board is mandated to regulate the registration, practice and professional development of engineers to ensure engineering services meet recognised technical standards, ethical requirements and public safety obligations.
She said that by June 2026, the ERB had registered 46,084 engineers across various professional categories, including 6,490 women, representing 14.08 per cent of the total registered engineers. The board has also registered 3,762 engineering technicians.
Ms Ninalwo added that the regulator has licensed 476 engineering consulting firms, comprising 331 local and 145 foreign companies, as well as 56 engineering laboratories accredited to test construction works and engineering materials.
The figures highlight the expanding size of Tanzania's engineering profession as the country continues implementing large-scale investments in transport, energy, water and other public infrastructure, placing greater emphasis on professional regulation and quality assurance.
