Analysts have praised the government's proactive measures, which have resulted in a decrease in qualified opinions within the 2022/2023 Controller and Auditor General's (CAG) audited reports. They emphasize the importance of implementing effective strategies to curb revenue losses.
This positive development follows CAG Charles Kichere's recent presentation of significant improvements in Government Audit Reports (GARs) for the fiscal year 2022/2023 to President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Concurrently, the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) presented its performance report for the same period to the Head of State at the Chamwino State House in Dodoma.
During these presentations, PCCB Director General CP Salum Hamduni highlighted concerns regarding corruption in the execution of various development projects in the country, valued at 7.7 trillion Tanzanian shillings.
In interviews with 'Sunday News', analysts lauded the enhancements in the audit reports, underscoring improved management of government funds, particularly in adherence to procurement procedures and expenditure.
St. Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT) Lecturer, Dotto Bulendu, emphasized the necessity for the government to enact measures preventing the misappropriation of funds. He urged authorities to give due attention to the recommendations put forth by the CAG.
Bulendu further urged a comprehensive evaluation of the competence of boards overseeing government institutions operating at a loss, emphasizing the importance of appointing qualified members.
Dr. Romanus Dimoso, a Senior Lecturer at the Economic Department of Mzumbe University, echoed Bulendu's sentiments, applauding the government's efforts to reduce qualified opinions. He stressed the urgency of addressing bureaucratic hurdles within government entities and advocated for a concerted anti-corruption drive and fostering patriotism among civil servants.
Dr. Dimoso emphasized the significance of strengthening oversight mechanisms to sustain economic progress. He called for collaborative efforts among government institutions, stakeholders, and citizens to promote integrity, accountability, and transparency across all sectors.
Dr. Paul Loisulie, a lecturer at the University of Dodoma, welcomed the increase in unqualified opinions, indicating improved compliance with procurement procedures and expenditure. He urged the government to devise specific strategies for identifying challenges within public institutions leading to revenue loss.
Furthermore, Dr. Loisulie emphasized the importance of assessing underperforming institutions to identify root causes, whether related to competence or resource limitations. He called upon public servants to enhance efficiency in their duties, citing examples such as the current challenges faced by the UDA Rapid Transit Public Limited Company (UDART).
The collective sentiments of analysts underscore a commitment to fiscal accountability, transparency, and efficiency within government operations, crucial for Tanzania's sustainable development.