The Government of Tanzania, through the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA), is taking important steps to protect its digital systems by training experts on cybersecurity.
The move is part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen the public procurement sector through the use of technology.
Speaking in Arusha on May 13, 2025, PPRA’s Director General, Mr. Dennis Simba, said that the safety of information in public procurement systems is a top priority.
He noted that the digital systems store sensitive government data that must be well protected.
“Public procurement is a sensitive area. It holds valuable data that must be protected from people with bad intentions. As technology changes, we must build systems that are safe and secure,” said Mr. Simba during the opening of a 12-day training for system developers.
He explained that cyber threats are becoming more common and more advanced. This means that Tanzania must train its experts regularly to stay ahead of the risks.
The training will help the participants build stronger systems and protect them from cyberattacks.
Mr. Simba also said the training supports the vision of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has called for continuous development of skills among government professionals.
“We are following the President’s guidance to make sure our professionals grow with technology. I encourage all participants to learn actively during these two weeks. Take part in the exercises, ask questions, and apply what you learn. This knowledge will help the country,” he said.
The Director General added that PPRA will continue to create more opportunities for learning so that system developers and administrators can improve their skills and keep up with global technology trends.
On his part, Mr. Michael Moshiro, Director of NeST System Development, said that the NeST system, which is being developed by Tanzanian experts, must meet high standards of cybersecurity.
“We are proud that this system is being built by our own professionals. But we must also make sure it is secure. That’s why this training is important. It gives our developers the tools they need to protect government data,” said Mr. Moshiro.
He explained that the NeST system is a joint effort between PPRA and other government institutions, and it will play a big role in improving transparency and efficiency in procurement processes.
The training, which includes PPRA’s internal developers and a technical expert from the Prime Minister’s Office, is being held in Arusha and will end on May 24, 2025.
It combines theory with practical exercises and aims to equip participants with hands-on skills in system security.
This initiative reflects Tanzania’s commitment to using homegrown solutions and skilled professionals to build safe and reliable public service systems.