Joseph Isangura
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Seif Shekalaghe, officially inaugurated the third Board of Directors for the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority (GCLA) on February 19, 2025, in Dar es Salaam.
Representing the Minister for Health, Jenista Mhagama, Dr. Shekalaghe emphasized the crucial role the new board will play in ensuring the agency runs efficiently and fulfills its legal mandates.
During the event, Dr. Shekalaghe urged the board members to take their responsibilities seriously, particularly in overseeing forensic investigations and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of chemical analyses conducted by the GCLA. He stressed that the Authority’s work is vital in supporting law enforcement, public health, and environmental safety.
“This board carries great responsibility,” he said. “It will oversee investigations linked to criminal cases, address key health-related concerns, and safeguard both national security and the environment from dangerous chemicals.”
The GCLA plays a critical role in forensic science, supporting legal cases with chemical analysis, toxicology reports, and DNA testing. Its work directly influences court decisions, helping to establish facts in criminal investigations and public health matters. The Authority also monitors hazardous substances, ensuring chemicals used in industries, agriculture, and healthcare do not pose a risk to the population.
Dr. Shekalaghe reminded the newly appointed board that their leadership will shape the future of forensic science in the country. He urged them to establish policies that align with international standards, enhance laboratory efficiency, and maintain public confidence in the GCLA’s findings.
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He also highlighted the importance of collaboration, calling for stronger ties between the GCLA and law enforcement agencies, hospitals, research institutions, and environmental bodies. “We must work together to ensure the safety of our people. Science and law are interconnected, and this board must facilitate that connection effectively,” he said.
The launch event was attended by senior government officials, health experts, law enforcement representatives, and other key stakeholders. Their presence underscored the importance of the GCLA’s work and the collective effort required to strengthen forensic investigations in Tanzania.
With the new board in place, expectations are high for improved service delivery, greater efficiency in forensic investigations, and stronger policies to guide chemical analysis. The coming years will be crucial in shaping the GCLA’s impact on justice, public health, and environmental protection, ensuring that science continues to serve the interests of the people.
