KIBAHA: PUBLIC and private institutions have been urged to get ahead of the expected El Niño rains, with the government warning against waiting for disasters to strike before putting preparedness and response measures in place.
The call was particularly important for institutions responsible for water, health, security, communication, regulation, development, the private sector and community services.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Vice-President’s Office (Union), Dr Latifa Mohamed, made the remarks on Saturday while closing the Sustainable and Inclusive Women Leadership and Management (SIWOLEMA) training for female public servants from government and private institutions at the Mwalimu Nyerere Leadership School in Kibaha Municipality, Coast Region.
“When you return to work, I ask you to look at how your institutions are preparing for risks that may be brought by heavy rains, floods, damage to infrastructure, health challenges, data security, emergency services, transport, communication and protection of people in vulnerable environments during the El Niño rains,” she said.
Dr Latifa said effective leadership required institutions to anticipate risks, plan early, communicate effectively and take timely action instead of waiting for problems to emerge.
“I urge you not to leave here with notebooks full of notes only. Leave with an implementation plan, for each participant to return with one or two things to start immediately within their institution improving communication, reducing bureaucracy and managing resources transparently,” she said.
She also urged the participants to strengthen discipline, establish systems for listening to stakeholders and increase women’s participation in decision-making through the safe and productive use of technology.
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“To the women participants, do not accept to see yourselves as guests in leadership. This position is not a gift you are given; it is a contribution the nation needs,” she said.
Dr Latifa also urged the participants to protect the Union, saying its sustainability required commitment from every citizen.
The Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Leadership School Principal, Prof Marcelina Chijoriga, said the SIWOLEMA programme brought together 50 women and three men.
She said participants covered 14 topics, including measuring results, project initiation, mental health and patriotism.
One of the participants, Assistant Commissioner of Prisons Matilda Mlawa from Lindi Region, said the training would help participants deliver positive results in their institutions.
Another participant, Raya Hassan from the Ministry of Health Zanzibar, said the programme had enhanced their understanding of leadership and the importance of patriotism in national development.
