Women in the Tanzania Prisons Service have been urged to invest in education, digital skills and leadership development to remain competitive and take on greater responsibilities within the institution.
Deputy Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Eng. Maryprisca Mahundi, said continuous learning and effective use of technology were increasingly important as public services adopted digital systems.
She made the remarks in Dodoma while opening the 2026 annual general meeting of the Tanzania Prisons Service Women Network (TPSWNet).
Ms Mahundi said women officers should take advantage of training and technological opportunities to improve their professional capacity and contribute more effectively to service delivery.
She said the changing workplace required employees to continuously update their knowledge rather than rely solely on skills acquired earlier in their careers.
“The current competitive environment requires employees who are committed to continuous learning and capable of using technology to improve services,” she said.
The deputy minister said stronger investment in women’s skills would also help increase their representation in leadership and decision-making positions.
Her remarks come as public institutions increasingly seek to integrate technology into service delivery, making digital competence an important part of professional development.
Prisons Commissioner for Legal and Operations, CP Nicodemus Menyiansumba Tenga, said women already serving in various leadership positions had demonstrated the potential within the institution.
He said their achievements should encourage other female officers to pursue professional growth and aspire to leadership positions.
Prisons Commissioner for Correctional Services, CP Amina Jumanne Kavirondo, said TPSWNet was contributing to efforts to build women’s capacity, promote gender equality and improve the working environment.
She said the network provided an important platform for addressing issues affecting women officers while supporting their professional and personal development.
The meeting, which runs from September 7 to 9, is discussing leadership, economic empowerment, health, ethics, responsible use of social media and correctional services.
The discussions are expected to help identify practical measures for strengthening women’s contribution to the Tanzania Prisons Service while improving their opportunities for advancement.