Prioritise health for better service, workers told

DODOMA: PUBLIC servants have been urged to prioritise their physical and mental well-being as a key strategy to enhance efficiency and improve service delivery across government institutions.

The call was made on Monday in Dodoma by the Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office (Public Service Management and Good Governance), Mr Juma Mkomi, while chairing a meeting to select the best employee in his office. Mr Mkomi emphasised that a healthy workforce is critical to achieving optimal performance in public service, noting that employees who are physically fit and mentally stable are better positioned to think clearly, make sound decisions and effectively execute their responsibilities.

“A public servant who enjoys good health is more productive and capable of delivering quality services to the public. On the other hand, poor health directly affects performance and ultimately undermines service delivery,” he said.

He underscored the importance of cultivating a culture of self-care among public servants, stressing that good health begins at an individual level.

According to him, maintaining proper nutrition, engaging in regular physical exercise and ensuring adequate rest are essential components of a healthy lifestyle that should not be overlooked.

Mr Mkomi further noted that workplace productivity is closely linked to the overall well-being of employees, calling on public institutions to continue promoting wellness programmes that support both physical and mental health.

He said such initiatives would not only improve staff morale but also contribute to better institutional performance. In a related development, Permanent Secretary extended his best wishes to the Utumishi Sports Club as it prepares to participate in the upcoming May Day sports competitions scheduled to take place in Njombe Region.

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He urged players, coaches and the technical bench to remain disciplined, committed and focused, while upholding the highest standards of sportsmanship throughout the competition.

“Go to the competition with determination and discipline. Strive to demonstrate a higher level of performance compared to what you showed during SHIMIWI 2025,” he said.

Mr Mkomi added that participation in sports is not only important for physical fitness but also helps to strengthen teamwork, unity and resilience among public servants. He expressed confidence that the Utumishi Sports Club would represent the office with distinction and bring pride to the institution.

He concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to promoting the welfare of public servants, noting that a healthy and motivated workforce remains central to achieving national development goals.