Respicius Mwijage
Member
- Dec 18, 2023
- 38
- 19
“Key Focus on Transparency, Governance, and Accountability”
As Tanzanians await the presentation of the 2024/2025 financial year budget by the Minister of Finance, the nation stands at a critical juncture. Our President's vision of economic development is shaped by her political mission centered on Reconciliation, Resilience, Reforms, and Rebuilding (4Rs). With local government elections on the horizon, citizens are keenly interested in how the government plans to address critical issues such as transparency, good governance, accountability, corruption, and the mismanagement of public funds. Without addressing these issues, the President's vision may not yield the desired outcomes. These concerns are particularly pressing as the public seeks assurances that financial policies will not only stimulate economic growth but also promote ethical governance.
Transparency and Good Governance
Tanzanians expect the budget speech to emphasize measures that enhance transparency within government operations. This includes the implementation of advanced public financial management systems that allow for real-time tracking of government expenditures and revenues. Transparent processes ensure that citizens can see how their taxes are being used, which builds trust in public institutions.
Good governance, another critical area, entails the effective, equitable, and efficient management of public resources. Tanzanians are looking for robust frameworks that ensure government officials are held to high standards of integrity and accountability. The budget should outline specific strategies to improve governance structures, including the strengthening of independent oversight bodies.
Accountability Mechanisms
Accountability is a cornerstone of public trust. The 2024/2025 budget is expected to detail stringent accountability measures that prevent the misuse of public funds. This involves enhancing the roles and capacities of institutions such as the Controller and Auditor General (CAG), Internal Auditor General’s Office and the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA). Effective accountability mechanisms not only deter corruption but also ensure that public resources are utilized for their intended purposes.
Tackling Corruption
Corruption remains a significant concern for many Tanzanians. The budget speech must address this issue head-on by proposing comprehensive anti-corruption measures. This includes strengthening the powers and resources of anti-corruption agencies, implementing stricter penalties for corrupt practices, and promoting a culture of integrity within public service. Citizens expect clear commitments from the government to root out corruption at all levels, ensuring that public funds are safeguarded and used to benefit the broader society.
Addressing Mismanagement of Public Funds
The mismanagement of public funds has long hindered Tanzania’s development prospects. In this regard, the budget should propose reforms aimed at enhancing financial discipline within government departments. This could include the adoption of performance-based budgeting, where funds are allocated based on the efficiency and effectiveness of programs. Furthermore, regular audits and evaluations of public projects can help identify and correct inefficiencies, ensuring that public funds are not wasted.
Enhancing Public Participation
Tanzanians are also looking forward to a budget that encourages public participation in financial decision-making processes. By involving citizens in the expenditure according to the approved budget for each ministry and government department, the government can ensure that resource allocation reflects the needs and priorities of the people. This participatory approach not only enhances transparency but also fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among the populace.
Conclusion
As the nation eagerly awaits the budget speech, there is a collective hope that the government will address these critical areas with actionable plans and commitments. The upcoming financial year presents an opportunity for the Tanzanian government to demonstrate its dedication to building a transparent, accountable, and corruption-free administration. In doing so, it can pave the way for sustainable economic growth and a more equitable society, reinforcing the trust of Tanzanians in their leaders and institutions.
Good governance, another critical area, entails the effective, equitable, and efficient management of public resources. Tanzanians are looking for robust frameworks that ensure government officials are held to high standards of integrity and accountability. The budget should outline specific strategies to improve governance structures, including the strengthening of independent oversight bodies.
Accountability Mechanisms
Accountability is a cornerstone of public trust. The 2024/2025 budget is expected to detail stringent accountability measures that prevent the misuse of public funds. This involves enhancing the roles and capacities of institutions such as the Controller and Auditor General (CAG), Internal Auditor General’s Office and the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA). Effective accountability mechanisms not only deter corruption but also ensure that public resources are utilized for their intended purposes.
Tackling Corruption
Corruption remains a significant concern for many Tanzanians. The budget speech must address this issue head-on by proposing comprehensive anti-corruption measures. This includes strengthening the powers and resources of anti-corruption agencies, implementing stricter penalties for corrupt practices, and promoting a culture of integrity within public service. Citizens expect clear commitments from the government to root out corruption at all levels, ensuring that public funds are safeguarded and used to benefit the broader society.
Addressing Mismanagement of Public Funds
The mismanagement of public funds has long hindered Tanzania’s development prospects. In this regard, the budget should propose reforms aimed at enhancing financial discipline within government departments. This could include the adoption of performance-based budgeting, where funds are allocated based on the efficiency and effectiveness of programs. Furthermore, regular audits and evaluations of public projects can help identify and correct inefficiencies, ensuring that public funds are not wasted.
Enhancing Public Participation
Tanzanians are also looking forward to a budget that encourages public participation in financial decision-making processes. By involving citizens in the expenditure according to the approved budget for each ministry and government department, the government can ensure that resource allocation reflects the needs and priorities of the people. This participatory approach not only enhances transparency but also fosters a sense of ownership and accountability among the populace.
Conclusion
As the nation eagerly awaits the budget speech, there is a collective hope that the government will address these critical areas with actionable plans and commitments. The upcoming financial year presents an opportunity for the Tanzanian government to demonstrate its dedication to building a transparent, accountable, and corruption-free administration. In doing so, it can pave the way for sustainable economic growth and a more equitable society, reinforcing the trust of Tanzanians in their leaders and institutions.
The author (Respicius E. Mwijage)
Tax lawyer with experience in Tax Dispute Resolution
E-mail: remwijage@yahoo.com
Mob: +255 688 526 718