Improve digital camera system, Jafo tasks WRRB

DODOMA: MINISTER for Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo has tasked the Warehouse Receipt Regulatory Board (WRRB) to oversee the implementation of a digital camera system and warehouse identification stickers to further enhance buyer confidence in Tanzania’s warehouse system.

Dr Jafo made this call over the weekend in Dodoma during the launch of the digital camera system and warehouse identification stickers, encouraging the WRRB staff to leave a lasting impact through their work.

He tasked the WRRB Executive Director Asangye Bangu to ensure this system is robust to build buyer confidence and involve young ICT professionals.

“What the customer sees should be the reality—no deception,” said Minister Jafo.

“You’ve done an excellent job and I am confident that you will continue to innovate and establish strong connections.”

Dr Jafo commended the WRRB for its significant achievements despite facing various challenges, which he cited as a sign of effective performance.

“Farmers used to complain that pigeon peas had no market, but through the Warehouse Receipt System, the situation has improved. Executive Director Bangu, you’ve done well.”

Reflecting on past challenges, Dr Jafo recalled the cashew market’s struggles, where nuts were often mixed with stones, nearly jeopardising international trade.

He said that improvements have since been made, with buyers now able to inspect warehouse stock remotely, even from outside Tanzania.

Dr Jafo further urged warehouse managers to incorporate logos into the system to boost its effectiveness and maintain transparency.

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He also encouraged government officials to continue striving for excellence in their work, urging them to build a legacy that will last.

“We spend much of our time at work. Today, an employee might apply for a 28- day leave, but approval is uncertain. Let’s cultivate a work culture that ensures everything runs smoothly,” he said.

“I trust that everyone will fulfil their responsibilities.” “Work hard and leave a legacy. Make it so that whoever takes your place will find it difficult to fill your shoes. Work as if it were a calling. Let’s bring change,” he added.

In his remarks, Mr Bangu said that the board’s primary role is to facilitate trade and issue licences. He said that the board exists to formalise markets, ensure fair payments to farmers, improve quality and increase income for Tanzanians.

Mr Bangu noted a rise in revenue from commodities using the Warehouse Receipt System this year and shared plans to integrate seaweed, fish, and minerals into the system in collaboration with the Ministry of Livestock.

“We are firmly committed to executing our duties effectively. We will implement your directives and take them seriously,” assured Mr Bangu.

Meanwhile, the Coordination and Services Manager at WRRB, Mr Abubakari Ndwata, said that the warehouse identification sticker provides essential information such as the warehouse name, ownership and location.

The sticker also enables users to check stored commodities, quantities, bag counts and weights.

“This identification label will enhance our credibility, so buyers can have confidence in the system.,” Mr Ndwata said.