Government Responds to Growing Concerns Over Tanzania Police Operational Challenges
President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Tanzania Defence Forces, has issued strong directives to the Tanzania Police Force, urging officers to uphold high standards of ethics, discipline, and professionalism in order to maintain and strengthen public trust.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony of police officers and assistant inspectors held at Kurasini in Dar es Salaam on May 28, 2026, the President emphasized that policing is not just a normal occupation but a critical national responsibility requiring integrity, legal understanding, discipline, and awareness of Tanzania’s cultural and development priorities.
She highlighted that rapid technological advancement has significantly changed the nature of crime, increasing security threats across borders, roads, oceans, communities, and digital platforms.
Because of these evolving challenges, she stressed that the police force must continuously improve its systems, methods, and operations to effectively respond to modern security risks.President Samia also underlined the importance of training as a key tool in building a more efficient and professional police service.She expressed confidence that the graduating officers had acquired the necessary skills to serve the nation effectively.
Additionally, she acknowledged the recommendations of the 2022 Criminal Justice Commission, noting that reforms such as strengthening community policing, improving ICT use, enhancing training, and reinforcing discipline were already being implemented.
She further stated that success of these reforms should be measured by better protection of citizens and property, improved ethical conduct, efficient use of resources, and stronger public confidence in the police.
The President also called for closer cooperation between the police, citizens, and other security agencies to prevent crime before it happens and ensure faster response to victims.
She reminded graduating officers that true leadership in the police force would be judged not by rank or decorations, but by discipline, integrity, and effective service delivery in protecting people and their property.