SERVICE to the people is not a discretion but a duty among public agencies, a top executive has declared.

Dr James Andilile, Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) director general, made this remark when officiating at the 2025 Public Service Week commemorations here on Tuesday, explaining that people are not being privileged when served but accessing a fundamental right,

He said that the regulatory agency is committed to delivering high-quality, transparent and accountable services by leveraging technology to improve services, upholding public service values.

EWURA remains steadfast in its mission to ensure all Tanzanians access essential energy and water services efficiently and reliably, he said, underlining that it recognizes its responsibility to the public.

“We are committed to offering quality services through digital platforms while strengthening management and oversight in the sectors we regulate,” he declared, in relation to EWURA oversight in electricity, petroleum, natural gas, water and sanitation services countrywide.

Throughout the Public Service Week, EWURA has been engaging directly with the public, listening to their concerns, offering education about user rights and responsibilities, along with explaining how the institution controls prices, ensures quality and monitors service availability.

“Public Service Week gives us a unique opportunity to interact with the people we serve. It’s not just about listening, but acting on the feedback to continuously improve our systems,” he explained.

Strong public service is a cornerstone for national socio-economic growth, in which case EWURA upholds principles of good governance—transparency, accountability and public participation in decision-making, he elaborated.

He urged members of the public to take advantage of the Public Service Week to access information about EWURA’s operations and use the platform to contribute to shaping better service delivery systems.

In addressing petroleum sector regulation, he pointed at unscrupulous traders who tamper with petroleum products. “We are closely monitoring all retail stations. Any dealer involved in processing or adulterating kerosene, petrol or diesel will face the full force of the law,” he asserted.

Fuel traders need to sell petroleum products based on the customer's actual needs, and to strictly observe indicative pricing guidelines issued by EWURA. “Fuel is a strategic commodity. “Disregarding regulations not only hurts consumers but it disrupts national economic stability,” he stated.

The Public Service Week is marked annually to promote professionalism, transparency and public engagement, providing a forum for government institutions to address service delivery challenges, strengthening public sector toes with the public it serves.