Joseph Isangura
Tanzania’s Drugs Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) has intensified its campaign against drug abuse among public servants after investigations revealed that some government employees were using illegal substances, particularly in entertainment venues.
The nationwide initiative combines awareness campaigns in government institutions, intensified enforcement operations and public education programmes aimed at reducing drug use and promoting a drug-free public service.
The campaign follows remarks by DCEA Commissioner General Aretas Lyimo, who disclosed that investigations had established the involvement of some public officials in drug use, especially in nightlife venues, including VIP sections of clubs and entertainment establishments.
Speaking in Arusha on Sunday, July 12, 2026, DCEA Northern Zone Officer Abdulatif Saidy said the authority had begun expanding its prevention programmes to government ministries, departments and public institutions while continuing intelligence-led operations in areas identified as hotspots for cannabis, khat and other illicit drug consumption.
“We are taking prevention directly to workplaces because public servants have a responsibility to uphold the law and serve as role models in society,” Saidy said.
He explained that the authority will organize seminars, workshops and awareness sessions to educate government employees about the health, social and economic consequences of drug abuse, as well as its impact on productivity, decision-making and public service delivery.
According to DCEA, drug abuse not only affects individual health but also reduces workplace efficiency, increases absenteeism, contributes to disciplinary problems and can undermine public confidence in government institutions.
Alongside workplace awareness campaigns, enforcement teams have intensified inspections and surveillance in entertainment venues, bars, nightclubs and other locations suspected of facilitating drug use.
Officials say intelligence gathering will continue to identify suppliers, distributors and users involved in illegal drug networks operating within the country.
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The authority has also urged employers, community leaders and families to play a greater role in identifying individuals struggling with substance abuse and encouraging them to seek counselling and rehabilitation services before addiction worsens.
Tanzania has in recent years strengthened efforts to combat narcotics through stricter law enforcement, border surveillance and public awareness campaigns targeting schools, universities, workplaces and local communities.
The government considers drug trafficking and substance abuse significant threats to public health, national security and economic development, citing their links to organised crime, violence and declining productivity.
DCEA reaffirmed that its latest campaign is not intended solely to arrest offenders but also to prevent drug abuse through education, early intervention and community participation.
Officials say the authority will continue working with government institutions, law enforcement agencies and civil society organisations to promote a drug-free workforce while ensuring that those found violating the country’s narcotics laws are dealt with in accordance with the law.
The expanded campaign reflects Tanzania’s broader commitment to strengthening public health, improving workplace integrity and reducing the social and economic burden associated with illegal drug use.
