THE Tanzania Electrical, Mechanical and Electronics Services Agency (TEMESA) is undergoing major reforms aimed at improving its performance, including upgrading vehicle maintenance systems, introducing a new prepaid payment model, and enhancing staff capacity.

Dr Charles Msonde, deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works, announced the reforms yesterday in Dar es Salaam while opening a seven-day training programme for 30 TEMESA vehicle maintenance technicians. The training focuses on modern engine and gearbox systems for government vehicles, which are frequently updated with new technology.

“In order to keep up with these technological changes, TEMESA technicians and other staff must undergo regular training,” said Dr Msonde.   

He urged all public institutions and ministries under   TEMESA to adapt to these changes and start paying for services in advance to ensure the agency operates efficiently.

“The government is determined to strengthen TEMESA’s ability to serve effectively. I urge all stakeholders to support these changes to achieve this important national goal,” he added.

Dr Msonde emphasised the importance of registering all government vehicles under TEMESA's new digital maintenance system, known as MUM, to improve tracking and service efficiency.

“We want to know the status of any government vehicle undergoing repairs at any TEMESA workshop across the country, whether it’s in Katavi or elsewhere,” he said, highlighting   the shift to a prepaid payment system to prevent debt accumulation, replacing the previous post-service payment model.

Dr Msonde encouraged the technicians to apply the skills they acquire to improve service quality at TEMESA workshops and train their colleagues.

“If you want to run fast, run alone; but if you want to go far, run with others. TEMESA wants to go far,” he said.

Lazaro Kilahala, TEMESA chief executive said the agency has 361 technicians and is training them in small groups to ensure consistent skills development. He said the current training, which involves 30 technicians, will be followed by another batch of 30 technicians.

“This training is hands-on, preparing technicians to handle modern vehicles with confidence,” Kilahala said.

TEMESA has partnered with the National Institute of Transport (NIT) to deliver specialised training and is working with local vehicle manufacturers like Toyota and Nissan to ensure technicians are equipped to handle the latest vehicle technology.

Kilahala stressed that TEMESA aims to eliminate the challenge of low confidence among technicians and improve service efficiency. He added that TEMESA is also recruiting experienced technicians from across Tanzania to further strengthen its team.

“We are on a path of change, and this training marks the beginning of a new chapter for TEMESA,” Kilahala said.

TEMESA’s reforms aim to enhance the agency’s operational capacity, improve service delivery, and increase efficiency in maintaining government vehicles.