A former senior official of the Weights and Measures Agency (WMA), Mr Deogratius Aloyce Maneno, has called for greater investment in measurement systems, saying accurate weighing is essential to protecting consumers, promoting fair trade and strengthening the economy.
Mr Maneno, who served as WMA Director of Support Services, made the remarks on August 8, 2026, when he visited the agency’s pavilion at the 33rd Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibition at the Dr John Samuel Malecela Grounds in Dodoma.
He said reliable measurement systems were critical to ensuring that consumers received the quantities they paid for while businesses operated on a level playing field.
After receiving a briefing from WMA officials on new equipment and public education initiatives, Mr Maneno said he was encouraged by the progress made by the agency since its early years.
“I am very pleased to see that WMA has made significant progress. When we started, we faced challenges related to equipment and public awareness, but today I see young professionals confidently providing education. This is the result of investment,” he said.
However, Mr Maneno, popularly known as “Bosi Deo”, said WMA should widen its public education campaigns to reach small-scale traders and vendors, arguing that they were among those most affected by weaknesses in measurement systems.
He said while educating large businesses remained important, greater attention should be given to traders operating in markets and other informal settings.
“This is the time to go down to the level of mama lishe and market vendors because they are among those who suffer most from the use of inaccurate or unofficial measurements,” he said.
He also urged traders to embrace digital technology, particularly electronic weighing scales and receipt systems, saying the move could improve transparency and record-keeping while reducing opportunities for malpractice.
“The world has changed. Use digital weighing scales and systems that issue receipts. This will help maintain records and reduce malpractice in business,” he said.
Mr Maneno further challenged WMA officials to make effective use of the legal powers available to the agency against traders who violate measurement standards.
“WMA has the authority. Use it. When those who violate the law are caught and fined, others will follow the rules. A fair market requires discipline,” he said.
His comments highlight the broader role of measurement standards in the economy, where inaccurate scales and other measuring instruments can affect both consumers and businesses by distorting the quantity and value of goods exchanged.
WMA Public Relations and Communications Manager, Ms Veronica Simba, thanked Mr Maneno for his contribution to the agency during his tenure and for sharing his experience with current employees.
“We are proud of the mark that you and other retirees left behind. Today, we are continuing your vision of ensuring that every Tanzanian receives accurate measurements. Our doors remain open to your advice at all times,” she said.
Some visitors to the WMA pavilion welcomed the presence of former officials, saying their return provided an opportunity for younger employees to benefit from institutional experience.
Other former WMA officials who visited the pavilion included Mr Evarist Masengo, a former regional WMA manager, and Mr Joseph Maliti, a former head of the Procurement Unit.
The two former officials expressed satisfaction with the agency’s progress and commended its current leadership and employees for continuing to strengthen its operations.
