Silaa stresses ethics for public servants

DAR ES SALAAM: PUBLIC servants have been reminded to uphold unity, harmony and ethical conduct while executing duties to serve the public.

Newly-appointed Minister for Information, Communication and Information Technology, Mr Jerry Silaa (MP), issued the call in Dar es Salaam yesterday during a familiarisation visit to the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) headquarters.

The minister also urged public servants to prioritise the implementation of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s 4Rs philosophy using Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

Mr Silaa recently took over the docket from Mr Nape Nnauye, who was relieved of his duties by the president. The former previously served in the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development.

Upon his arrival at TCRA headquarters, Minister Silaa was warmly welcomed by TCRA Director-General Dr Jabiri Bakari and the Authority’s management team.

Dr Bakari congratulated the Minister on his new role and provided an overview of TCRA’s operations and responsibilities, highlighting the different sub-sectors overseen by the Authority, such as telephony, internet, broadcasting and postal services, which significantly contribute to the national economy.

“Communication is an enabling sector for other areas such as health, education, finance, security, aviation transport, water and railways,” noted Dr Bakari.

During his visit, Minister Silaa toured several key departments within TCRA.

His first stop was the Computer Emergency Response Team (TZ-CERT), where he received detailed briefings on how the unit monitors and ensures cybersecurity in Tanzania, including current challenges and strategies to enhance network security.

Minister Silaa then visited the Customer Service Desk, observing how TCRA handles complaints and feedback from the public regarding communication services.

He emphasised the importance of delivering prompt and efficient services to ensure public satisfaction, stating; “Serving our citizens swiftly and effectively is crucial in maintaining their trust and ensuring they receive the quality services they deserve.”

At the Communication Museum, Minister Silaa explored the rich history of communication in Tanzania, viewing historical artifacts and learning about the museum’s educational benefits for students.

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“Preserving and showcasing the development of our communication sector from ancient times to the present is essential for educating current and future generations,” he remarked, commending TCRA’s efforts in maintaining this national heritage.

Minister Silaa also inspected the spectrum management and quality monitoring vehicles during his visit. These vehicles are equipped with advanced tools to measure quality and manage communication frequencies, ensuring proper usage and preventing interference and unauthorised use.

“Investing in cutting-edge technologies is vital for controlling frequencies and enhancing communication management in our country,” he said, lauding praising TCRA’s technological advancements.

Furthermore, Minister Silaa was briefed on TCRA’s strategic plans, including initiatives to expand communication services to remote and underserved areas.

He expressed his satisfaction with these efforts and pledged close cooperation to ensure their success.

“The government is committed to ensuring that every Tanzanian, regardless of their location, has access to quality communication services,” he affirmed.

Minister Silaa promised to maintain close collaboration with TCRA’s management and staff.

He encouraged them to work diligently and creatively, highlighting that the sixth phase government, led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, is dedicated to providing all necessary resources to perform their duties efficiently.

“We must adhere to President Samia’s four Rs, particularly in implementing the national ICT strategy launched at the State House in Dar es Salaam by the president on July 29, this year,” he urged.

Minister Silaa’s visit has been met with great optimism by stakeholders in the communication sector.

Many believe his leadership will enhance efficiency and productivity in this critical industry.

Dr Bakari, on behalf of TCRA, assured the minister of their full support in achieving the ministry’s goals.

“We are confident that under Minister Silaa’s leadership, we will continue to make significant strides in advancing the communication sector in Tanzania,” Dr Bakari concluded.