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Concerted efforts crucial to fight graft in polls

TANGA: THE Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) has been urged to develop a collaborative strategy with civil society organisations and non-governmental organisations in Tanga region to fight corruption in the forthcoming elections.

The call to action was made during a one-day seminar that brought together PCCB officials, leaders of CSOs, NGOs and government agencies.

Chief Executive Officer with the Community Volunteer Service Tanzania (CVS), Mr Simon Mashairi said there is a need for joint efforts in combating corruption acts and that PCCB must work closely with NGOs, CSOs and other agencies to address the problem.

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He emphasised the importance of a collaborative strategy to raise corruption awareness, noting that corruption is becoming deeply ingrained in the society.

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“It is obvious that many people have a poor understanding of corruption and its impact on their rights to elect good leaders, which, when combined with poverty, makes them vulnerable to bribery,” said Mr Mashairi.

He said lack of funding for effective awareness campaigns is one of the major challenges that hinder the provision of education on corruption related matters.

“We must also consider leveraging modern digital technology, such as creating a special application or broadcasting messages through networks,” he noted.

He also advocated for rigorous monitoring and evaluation of anticorruption efforts during elections in order to avoid repeating mistakes and strengthening strategies.

Chairman of the Tanga Regional NGO Forum, Mr Goodluck Malilo stated that CSOs and NGOs must recognise their role in the society. He urged the organisations to seize the opportunity for close cooperation with the PCCB.

Tanga Regional Commissioner, Dr Batilda Buriani, opened the seminar by urging CSOs to help the PCCB raise corruption awareness so that people can make informed decisions. The RC also cautioned CSOs and NGOs to avoid implementing programmes that violate the country’s ethical conducts and laws.

“Do not accept donor money and agree to do things that are not acceptable in our country, do not do whatever you are told to do simply because you need funding,” she warned.

On his part, Tanga Regional PCCB Chief, Mr Victor Swila pledged to strengthen collaboration with CSOs and NGOs, pointing out that the organisations were closer to people. “PCCB officials cannot reach every person in Tanzania; therefore, we need to involve CSOs,” he stated.