PS orders early action on community issues
DODOMA: SOCIAL Development and Social Welfare Officers have been directed to identify community challenges before they escalate and connect vulnerable groups to government services as part of efforts to improve service delivery.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Mr Eliakim Maswi, issued the directive in Dodoma yesterday while opening a working session for ministry’s staff aimed at building a common understanding of their roles and improving service delivery.
Mr Maswi said the officers serve as a vital link between the government and communities and should work together to ensure citizens access essential services and opportunities.
“Social Development Officers are agents of change and an important link between the government and the community, while Social Welfare Officers provide services to our communities,” he said.
He added, “It is therefore your responsibility to promote equality and opportunities for citizens.”
The PS also directed the officers to identify community challenges early, coordinate resources provided by the government and development partners and empower citizens to fulfil their responsibilities, including caring for children and older people.
Mr Maswi said public servants in the ministry should demonstrate compassion, accountability and discipline while ensuring citizens receive accurate information and timely access to the services they need.
“When we help citizens to access opportunities, services and knowledge to address their challenges, we are helping the government fulfil its responsibilities,” he said.
He also urged the officers to strengthen teamwork by sharing information, knowledge and expertise to improve their response to issues affecting communities.
Director of the Social Development Department, Ms Ndayahundwa Balama said the session is expected to strengthen the performance of Social Development Officers and development stakeholders implementing community interventions.
Acting Director of the Department of Child Affairs, Ethics and Parenting, Ms Asha Vuai said the training would deepen staff understanding of implementing the Social Development Policy and contribute to achieving the goals of Development Vision 2050.
