DEDs directed to cover internet costs in public offices

GEITA: GEITA Regional Commissioner, Martine Shigella has directed employers, including District Executive Directors (DEDs) to cover internet service costs for employees in order to enhance efficient work performance without requiring staff’s personal funds.

Mr Shigella issued the directives during the celebration of International Workers’ Day (May 1, 2026), which in Geita Region was held at the Katoro Township Authority in Geita District Council.

His statement follows complaints presented by the Trade Union Congress of Tanzania (TUCTA) in Geita Region, claiming that employees are being forced to use their own money to pay for internet services. Mr Shigella said it is the responsibility of employers to create a conducive working environment for their staff without obstacles, noting that in this era of extensive use of ICT, internet access is a basic necessity.

“This is a fundamental issue. As employers, we have a duty to address it, and especially you directors, you have many employees who need internet bundles, so consider this in your internal revenues,” he said.

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He also instructed school head teachers and heads of health departments to submit reports on office internet expenses monthly or quarterly so that prompt measures can be taken to reimburse costs based on usage. He added that the government is improving communication services in all areas, including those with low internet speeds, to help both public and private sector employees work more efficiently.

Furthermore, he urged TUCTA to submit a report on all institutions that have failed to meet minimum wage requirements and comply with legal obligations regarding remittance of social security funds, so that appropriate action can be taken. Speaking on behalf of TUCTA, the Geita Regional Secretary of the Tanzania Teachers’ Union, Mr Pauline Tinda, said many employees are forced to use their own money to purchase internet bundles.

Tinda noted that this challenge is caused by failure to properly implement payments and entitlements for overtime work among public servants, an issue the government needs to address to reduce the burden on employees.